Rough Ride Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rough Ride is a private earth dam located in Johnson County, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 2007 by designer H. Lowham, this structure stands at a height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet. With a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres, Rough Ride serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, supporting fire protection, stock, and small fish pond needs in addition to irrigation.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Rough Ride has a moderate risk level assigned to it. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 85 feet and a maximum discharge of 1592 cubic feet per second. The structure's inspection frequency is every five years, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017. While the dam meets state regulatory requirements, it poses a moderate risk that necessitates ongoing risk management measures.

Located in an unnamed draw in Section 30 of Wyoming, Rough Ride plays a crucial role in water management for the area. With Liz Cheney as the representative for Congressional District 00, Wyoming, the dam provides essential irrigation water for agricultural use and maintains a stable water supply for various purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Rough Ride will be essential for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

381

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

UNNAMED DRAW SECTION 30

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

98

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.