Smith Ranch - Highland Satellite No. 2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Smith Ranch - Highland Satellite No.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
2 Dam, also known as the Evaporation Pond, is a privately owned earth dam located in Douglas, Wyoming. Completed in 1979, this dam serves a primary purpose other than flood control or water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 321 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 472 acre-feet. The dam, standing at a height of 17.5 feet, has a surface area of 40.2 acres and is situated in a drainage area of 0.26 square miles.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2017, it is important to note that the risk assessment for this structure is moderate. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second. While it is not under the jurisdiction of a state regulatory agency, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. With its location in Converse County and its proximity to the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Smith Ranch - Highland Satellite No. 2 Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Smith Ranch - Highland Satellite No. 2 Dam to be a fascinating structure with unique characteristics and a significant impact on the surrounding area. From its design as an earth dam with a stone core to its moderate risk assessment and satisfactory condition, this dam presents an intriguing case study for those interested in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, this dam showcases the importance of proper maintenance, inspection, and enforcement to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
2320 |
Dam Height |
17.5 |
River Or Stream |
NONE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
472 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Smith Ranch - Highland Satellite No. 2 Dam