South Ricketts Flat Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sg Palo Bowman No.1
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
South Ricketts Flat is a private irrigation dam located in Johnson, Wyoming, along the Ricketts Flat Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet and has a storage capacity of 359 acre-feet. With a surface area of 20.45 acres and a drainage area of 3.15 square miles, the dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock water, and fish and wildlife habitat.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, South Ricketts Flat poses a moderate risk level due to its location and design. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and an outlet valve for water release. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment taking place in August 2021, ensuring the safety and functionality of the structure. While no emergency action plan is currently in place, the dam meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of South Ricketts Flat, serving as a vital resource for agricultural irrigation and wildlife conservation in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1970s, this dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting local ecosystems. As efforts continue to enhance its risk management measures and emergency preparedness, South Ricketts Flat stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
777 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
RICKETTS FLAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.45 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
3.15 |
Nid Storage |
359 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Powder River At Sussex
|
144cfs |
Clear Creek Near Buffalo
|
17cfs |
Nf Powder River Below Pass Creek
|
50cfs |
Wild Horse Creek Near Arvada
|
0cfs |
Powder River At Arvada
|
187cfs |
Rock Creek Near Buffalo
|
70cfs |
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.
South Ricketts Flat