Big Sandy
Key Takeaway
Big Sandy is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 85 ft (taller than 97.7% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 2,350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 54.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 39.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,510 acres |
| Drainage Area | 439 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | WY01387 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Sandy?
Big Sandy is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Sandy?
Big Sandy is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Sandy built?
Big Sandy was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Sandy?
Big Sandy serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Sandy?
Big Sandy has a dam height of 85 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Sandy last inspected?
Big Sandy was last inspected on September 15, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.