Big Chief Dam

TRIB THREE BUTTES CREEK· Natrona, Wyoming· Built 1964· Gravity·
Low Hazard Debris Control Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Big Chief Dam is classified as low hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is debris control.

Physical Details

Dam Length413 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage72 acre-ft
Normal Storage14 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Year Completed1964 (62 years old)
NID IDWY01429

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: July 21, 2017
State Regulated: No

Ownership

DOI BLM

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Chief Dam?

Big Chief Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Big Chief Dam?

Big Chief Dam is owned by DOI BLM (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Big Chief Dam built?

Big Chief Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Big Chief Dam?

Big Chief Dam serves the following purposes: Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Big Chief Dam last inspected?

Big Chief Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.