Shell Creek No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shell Creek No.


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Summary

2, located in Shell, Wyoming, is a private-owned earth dam constructed in 1957 by USDA NRCS for water supply purposes along Shell Creek. With a height of 42.1 feet and a length of 440 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 1949 acre-feet, serving irrigation, fish and wildlife pond, and water supply needs. Although the dam has a low hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate, suggesting the need for proactive risk management measures.

Managed by the Forest Service, Shell Creek No. 2 has a spillway type of uncontrolled and a surface area of 98 acres, drawing water from a drainage area of 24 square miles. Despite lacking detailed condition assessment data, the dam's structural height of 18 feet and core type of stone provide essential insights into its design and construction. The dam is an integral component of the local water infrastructure, supporting the region's agricultural and environmental needs.

Recognized as a key water resource structure in Big Horn County, Wyoming, Shell Creek No. 2 plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the surrounding area. Its association with Shell Creek and its strategic location make it a vital asset for water management in the region. While the dam operates with a low hazard potential, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to uphold its functionality and safeguard against potential risks.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

42.1

River Or Stream

Shell Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

98

Drainage Area

24

Nid Storage

1949

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.