Clay Bank Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Clay Bank Reservoir, located in Fremont, Wyoming, is a federal-owned water resource managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this gravity dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond habitats. With a storage capacity of 121.8 acre-feet and a surface area of 20.5 acres, the reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and ensuring water availability for various needs.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Clay Bank Reservoir is recognized for its high risk due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of modern risk management measures. The reservoir does not have a spillway and is not state-regulated, posing potential challenges in the event of extreme weather events or emergencies. The dam's structural height of 12 feet and hydraulic height of 8 feet highlight its modest size, yet it remains a vital water source for the surrounding agricultural and wildlife communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Clay Bank Reservoir can appreciate its historical significance and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure its safety and efficiency. As a gravity dam with a unique design involving buttress and stone core types, the reservoir stands as a testament to early water management practices in the region. However, the need for regular inspections, risk assessments, and potential modernization efforts underscore the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

641

River Or Stream

unknown

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20.5

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

6.17

Nid Storage

121.8

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.