Shell Creek
Key Takeaway
Shell Creek is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 40 ft (taller than 86.7% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 98 acres |
| Drainage Area | 24 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | WY01100 |
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
SHELL VALLEY RESERVOIR COMPANY, INC
Private
Nearby Dams
Shell Creek No. 2
Big Horn, WY
Low Hazard 42 ftAdelaide
Big Horn, WY
High Hazard 74 ftTwin Lakes No. 1
Sheridan, WY
High Hazard 84 ftDome Lake
Sheridan, WY
Low Hazard 8 ftDome Lake No. 1
Sheridan, WY
High Hazard 30 ftWeir Pond
Sheridan, WY
Low Hazard 8 ftWeston
Sheridan, WY
Significant Hazard 18 ftSawmill
Sheridan, WY
High Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shell Creek?
Shell Creek 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 Shell Creek?
Shell Creek is owned by SHELL VALLEY RESERVOIR COMPANY, INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shell Creek built?
Shell Creek was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Shell Creek?
Shell Creek 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 Shell Creek?
Shell Creek has a dam height of 40 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 Shell Creek last inspected?
Shell Creek was last inspected on July 13, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.