Windy Draw
Key Takeaway
Windy Draw is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 59 ft (taller than 96% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 1,740 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 533 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,680 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2014 |
| NID ID | WY00645 |
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
JOHN E. RICE & SONS, DBA WRENCH RANCH
Private
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Windy Draw?
Windy Draw 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 Windy Draw?
Windy Draw is owned by JOHN E. RICE & SONS, DBA WRENCH RANCH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Windy Draw built?
Windy Draw was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Windy Draw?
Windy Draw serves the following purposes: Irrigation, 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 Windy Draw?
Windy Draw has a dam height of 59 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 Windy Draw last inspected?
Windy Draw was last inspected on May 13, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.