Widener Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Widener is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Sheridan, Wyoming, on the Apple Run river.


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Summary

Built in 1997, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 472 feet in length, providing vital water storage for irrigation purposes. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition according to a 2017 assessment, posing a moderate risk that requires attention.

Even though Widener serves primarily for irrigation, it also supports fire protection, stock watering, and fish and wildlife habitats. With a normal storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 50 acre-feet, this dam covers a surface area of 4.2 acres and drains an area of 1.07 square miles. With one valve outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway, Widener has been inspected periodically, with the last inspection taking place in September 2017.

In the scenic landscape of UNNAMED RANCH, Widener plays a crucial role in managing water resources for agricultural activities in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Widener are essential to ensure sustainable water management practices and safeguard against potential risks associated with aging infrastructure.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

472

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

APPLE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1.07

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.