Austin No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Austin No.


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Summary

1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Johnson County, Wyoming, along Austin Draw. Built in 1991 by designer John A. Lambert, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 17 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet and a surface area of 24 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Austin No. 1 is currently assessed as being in poor condition. The last inspection in June 2019 revealed the need for improvements, but the dam remains state regulated with regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The spillway, with a width of 60 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be interested in Austin No. 1 for its contribution to local water management and conservation efforts. As part of the Omaha District, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting against fire, providing water for livestock, and creating a habitat for small fish. However, ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades are needed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

AUSTIN DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

217

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.