Cottonwood
Key Takeaway
Cottonwood is classified as significant hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1994 and is 32 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 41 ft (taller than 89.1% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 1,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 21 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 103 acres |
| Drainage Area | 29 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,261 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1994 (32 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1996 |
| NID ID | WY02028 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
PEABODY CABALLO MINING, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cottonwood?
Cottonwood is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cottonwood?
Cottonwood is owned by PEABODY CABALLO MINING, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cottonwood built?
Cottonwood was completed in 1994, making it 32 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 Cottonwood?
Cottonwood serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cottonwood?
Cottonwood has a dam height of 41 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 Cottonwood last inspected?
Cottonwood was last inspected on June 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.