Hanchett is a privately owned dam located in Albany, Wyoming, along the South Blue Grass Creek. Completed in 1990, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 29 feet and a length of 475 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 94 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, a recent inspection in August 2018 revealed poor structural conditions, prompting concerns about its long-term reliability.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 150 feet, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 5682 cubic feet per second. While the dam is regulated and permitted by the state of Wyoming, its condition assessment indicates a need for maintenance and potential rehabilitation to ensure its continued functionality. With a moderate risk rating of 3 out of 5, there is a recognized need for ongoing risk management and monitoring to address the dam's structural deficiencies and mitigate any potential safety hazards that may arise in the future.

Hanchett's location in Wheatland, Wyoming, makes it an important water resource for the surrounding area, but its condition assessment and risk profile highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and management to safeguard its performance and ensure the safety of downstream communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the resilience and reliability of dams like Hanchett are crucial for maintaining water security and protecting against potential disasters.