Donlin Detention Dam

ALKALI CREEK· Natrona, Wyoming· Built 1955· Earth· 34 ft tall
Low Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Donlin Detention Dam is classified as low hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 34 ft (taller than 77.4% in WY)
Dam Length470 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage233 acre-ft
Surface Area23 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge415 cfs
Year Completed1955 (71 years old)
NID IDWY01435

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 26, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: SEO

Ownership

USDI BLM

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Donlin Detention Dam?

Donlin Detention 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 Donlin Detention Dam?

Donlin Detention Dam is owned by USDI BLM (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Donlin Detention Dam built?

Donlin Detention Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Donlin Detention Dam?

Donlin Detention Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Donlin Detention Dam?

Donlin Detention Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Donlin Detention Dam last inspected?

Donlin Detention Dam was last inspected on July 26, 2023. 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.