Rough Draw Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thunder Basin No 9 Frog Creek #1
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Rough Draw is a federal-owned structure located in Weston, Wyoming, along Frog Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1992 by the Forest Service, this Earth-type dam stands at 33 feet tall and spans 620 feet in length, primarily serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond while also aiding in Flood Risk Reduction. With a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.66 square miles, Rough Draw has a low hazard potential and is considered to have a moderate risk level.
The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 50 feet wide, can handle a maximum discharge of 5620 cubic feet per second. While the structure is not rated for condition assessment as of now, it undergoes inspections every 10 years, with the last one conducted in 2011. Rough Draw's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not specified, but it remains under the regulatory oversight of the State of Wyoming's SEO agency, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite its unassuming hazard potential and moderate risk level, Rough Draw plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and helping manage flood risks in the area. As an Earth-type dam with a focus on enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, this structure represents a harmonious blend of ecological conservation and disaster mitigation efforts, making it a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate in the beautiful landscape of Edgemont, SD.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
FROG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.66 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Rough Draw