Dull Knife
Key Takeaway
Dull Knife is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 80 ft (taller than 97.2% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 570 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 130 acres |
| Drainage Area | 26 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2018 |
| NID ID | WY00557 |
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
NORTH FORK POWDER RIVER WATER USERS ASSN
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dull Knife?
Dull Knife 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 Dull Knife?
Dull Knife is owned by NORTH FORK POWDER RIVER WATER USERS ASSN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dull Knife built?
Dull Knife was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Dull Knife?
Dull Knife serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dull Knife?
Dull Knife has a dam height of 80 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 Dull Knife last inspected?
Dull Knife was last inspected on July 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.