Summary
Built in 1950 by designer Hugh Lowham, the dam stands at 25 feet high and spans a length of 1063 feet along Prairie Dog Creek. It has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish ponds.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Floyd's risk level is moderate. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 185 feet and an outlet gate with a single valve. Located in an unnamed ranch in Wyoming, Floyd's emergency action plan status and inundation maps are currently unknown. The last inspection in 2018 showed that the dam was meeting regulatory standards, but its risk management measures and risk characterization are unspecified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Floyd presents an intriguing case study of a mid-century earth dam serving diverse agricultural needs in a rural setting. With its location in the Omaha District and proximity to Congressional District 00 in Wyoming, the dam's historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and environmental stewardship. As Floyd continues to fulfill its role in sustaining local water resources, monitoring its risk profile and emergency preparedness will be critical for ensuring the long-term safety and sustainability of this vital irrigation structure.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
1063 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
PRAIRIE DOG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Floyd