Water KSSources Development in Wyoming 1989 WyomiryC: c/ This publication is authorized by the Secretary of the Army as required by PL 99-662

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D A T E D U E

GAYLORD MIMTC0INV.S.A. BUREAU OF RECLAMATION DENVER LIBRARY 92098049 92098049

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Partnership has changed the way we do business. It has committed us to pursue new strategies to deal with old problems. We are also finding that partnerships mean results.

With a civil works program of more than $3 billion annually, the Army Corps of Engineers is the largest water resources development and management agency in the Federal Government. The civil works program consists of water resources project activities — planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance, and regulatory program activities.

Numerous navigation and flood control projects serve additional purposes. The Corps produces nearly 30 percent of the Nation’s hydropower. The 115 Corps lakes store 275.2 million acre-feet of water for agricultural, municipal, and industrial use.

In the 1930’s and 1940’s, many of the Corps reservoirs were built for a host of benefits, including reducing flood stages on the Lower Mississippi River. Last year, the drought clearly illustrated the capability of Corps multiple-purpose reservoirs to respond In a water shortage situation. Undertakings such as the Pick-Sloan plan, with its six main stem dams on the Missouri River, bequeathed an unforeseen legacy to the Nation — stable, low-water flows on the Lower Mississippi.

We, in the Army, look forward to continuing this public service. The Corps of Engineers’ qualifications to provide construction management services to other military and civilian Federal agencies are greatly bolstered by our major new management initiatives. Commitment to efficient project management — making solid cost estimates, delivering projects on schedule and within the estimate, controlling costs — demonstrates our resolve to responsibly serve the Nation. We are counting on you, as partners, to help us make sure the Nation’s resources are put to good use.

ROBERT W. PAGE Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works)

3X03.35¡5o: 1 2 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers entered a new era with the passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 1986. The act’s non-Federal cost-sharing provisions focused on an entirely different manner of doing business. With our cost-sharing partners, we are finding new and innovative ways to manage water resources projects and reduce costs to American taxpayers.

Our partners are paying not only large portions of the construction costs but also large portions of the study costs. Over the past 3 years, this partnership has completed a smooth transition that will provide a healthy water resources program for the future.

In the summer of 1988, a natural disaster brought home the importance of such a program. America was in the middle of a massive drought, one that rivaled the Dust Bowl days of the 1930’s. But, there was a difference. The Nation did not totally dry up. Aided by water resources projects built since the years of the Great Depression, the Corps was able to do a lot of things to aid navigation, water supply, and hydropower operation — even recreation.

If it were not for the massive reservoirs throughout the tributaries of the Mississippi River, navigation on the mightiest of rivers would have stopped in June — absolutely! During the summer and into the fall, some 65 percent of the flows into the Mississippi, past Memphis, came from Corps of Engineers reservoirs.

In addition, our lakes and dams enhance our national stewardship of the environment. Nine of the 191 finalists in last year’s “ Take Pride in America” awards program helped protect public lands at Corps of Engineers projects. These finalists were selected from 530 nominations representing 44 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

We are proud of our Take Pride in America finalists, and we are proud of our projects. But, most of all, we are proud of the new-found partnerships that will continue to build and operate our vital water resources for our future generations.

This booklet is one of a series detailing water resources programs in the 50 States and U.S. possessions. I hope you find it interesting and feel some pride of ownership.

H. J. HATCH Lieutenant General, USA Chief of Engineers US Army Corps of Engineers Missouri River Division

The address of each Corps of Engineers office in­ volved in the State is given below, and the area of 1989 responsibility of each is indicated on the map in Chapter I of this booklet. Inquiries regarding the work of the Corps should be addressed to the ap­ WYOMING propriate office.

DIVISION ENGINEER WATER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY MISSOURI RIVER DIVISION Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 103, Downtown Station RESOURCES Omaha, Nebraska 68101-0103 DISTRICT ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY DEVELOPMENT Omaha District, Corps of Engineers 215 North 17th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68102-4978

DIVISION ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY NORTH PACIFIC DIVISION Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 2870 Portland, Oregon 97208-2870

DISTRICT ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY Walla Walla District, Corps of Engineers Building 602, City-County Airport Walla Walla, Washington 99362-9265

DIVISION ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY SOUTH PACIFIC DIVISION Corps of Engineers 630 Sansome Street, Room 720 San Francisco, California 94111-2206

DISTRICT ENGINEER DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY Sacramento District, Corps of Engineers 650 Capitol Mall Sacramento, California 95814-4794

4 Table of Contents Chapter I: Civil Works Overview Planning Assistance to States Program ...... 18 Introduction...... 7 Technical and Engineering Assistance on Authorization and Planning Process Shore and Streambank Erosion...... 18 for Water Resources Projects ...... 7 Work Under Emergency A uthorities...... 18 Navigation...... , 8 Public Law 99, 84th Congress— Flood Control and Flood-Associated Assistance ...... 18 Flood Plain Management...... 8 Public Law 93-288—Major Disaster Recovery. . . 18 Shore and Hurricane Protection...... 8 Survey Investigations...... 19 Hydropower...... 9 Urban Studies...... 19 Water Supply...... 9 Special Studies ...... 19 Environmental Quality...... 9 Deer Creek Project ...... 19 Regulatory Programs...... 10 Sandstone P ro ject...... 19 Recreation...... 10 Chapter III: Snake River-Green River Basins Emergency Response and Recovery...... 10 Completed Flood Control Projects...... 24 Chapter II: Missouri River Tributary Basins Jackson Hole, Snake River...... 24 Completed Flood Control Projects...... 13 Associated Projects of Other Agencies...... 24 Greybull Local Protection Project...... 13 Jackson Lake Reservoir ...... 24 Multiple-Purpose Projects Underway...... 14 Green River B asin ...... 24 Comprehensive Plan, Missouri River B asin...... 14 Work Under the Continuing Authorities Program ... 24 Flood Control Projects Underway...... 15 Snagging and Clearing for Flood Control...... 24 Sheridan Local Protection Project...... 15 Work Under the Technical Assistance Programs .... 25 Associated Projects of Other Agencies...... 15 Flood Plain Management Services Program...... 25 Keyhole Dam and Reservoir...... 16 Planning Assistance to States Program ...... 25 Boysen Dam and Reservoir...... 16 Work Under Emergency Authorities ...... 26 Glendo Dam and Reservoir...... 16 Emergency W ork...... 26 Other Bureau of Reclamation Projects...... 16 Major Flood Emergency Operations...... 26 Work Under the Continuing Authorities Program . . . 17 Survey Investigations...... 26 Small Flood Control Projects...... 17 Index...... 27 Emergency Bank Protection...... 17 Work Under the Technical Assistance Programs 17 Glossary...... 28 Flood Plain Management Services Program...... 17 Flood Plain Information Reports ...... 18

5 Chapter I Civil Works Overview

6 The Water Resources Development Act of 1986 made nu­ Civil Works Overview merous changes in the way potential new water resources Introduction projects are studied, evaluated, and funded. The major change is that the law now specifies non-Federal cost­ From 1775 to the present, the U.S. Army Corps of Engi­ sharing for most of the Corps’ water resources projects. neers has served our Nation in peace and war. When local interests feel that a need exists for improved Formed by General George Washington during the Revolu­ navigation, flood protection, or other water resources devel­ tionary War as the engineering and construction arm of the opment, they may petition their representatives in Congress, Continental Army, the Corps built fortifications and coastal although technical assistance and some small projects can be batteries to strengthen our country’s defenses and went on accomplished without congressional authorization under the to develop our Nation’s water resources. Today, it is the Continuing Authorities Program. A congressional com­ largest engineering organization in the world. mittee resolution or an act of Congress may then authorize Although the mission of the Corps has always been to pro­ the Corps of Engineers to investigate the problem and vide combat support to our fighting Army, the Nation over submit a report. the years has also needed roads, railroads, lighthouses, Water resources studies, except studies of the inland water­ bridges, and other engineering work. Consequently, since ways system, are conducted in partnership with a local spon­ the period immediately following the Revolutionary War, sor. The Corps and the sponsor jointly fund and manage the the Corps has carried out numerous civil works responsibil­ study. ities; and since the early 1800’s, it has been the Federal Gov­ ernment’s principal developer of our Nation’s water re­ Public meetings are held to determine the views of local in­ sources. terests on the extent and types of improvements desired, as well as the need for the improvements. The desires of local The Corps is an Army Major Command, and the Assistant interests and the views of Federal, State, and other agencies Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) directs and supervises receive full consideration during the planning process. the Corps’ civil works mission carried out by its 300 engineer officers and 28,000 civilian employees. Considerations which enter into recommendations for proj­ ect authorization to Congress include determinations that Ever responsive to the changing needs and demands of the benefits will exceed costs and that the engineering design of American people, the Corps has planned and executed the project is sound, best serves the needs of the people con­ national programs for navigation, flood control and flood cerned, makes the wisest possible use of the natural re­ plain management, shore and hurricane protection, hydro- sources involved, and adequately protects the environment. power, water supply, environmental quality, regulatory pro­ grams, recreation, emergency response and recovery, and A report, along with an environmental impact analysis, is conservation. In its military role, the Corps plans, designs, then submitted to higher authority for review and recom­ and supervises the construction of modern facilities which mendations. After review and coordination with all inter­ are necessary to ensure the combat readiness of our Army ested Federal agencies and Governors of affected States, the and Air Force. Chief of Engineers forwards the report which includes the environmental impact analysis to the Secretary of the Army, Authorization and Planning Process who obtains the view of the Office of Management and for Water Resources Projects Budget before transmitting the report to Congress. If Congress includes the project in an authorization bill, en­ Water resources activities are initiated by local interests, actment of the bill constitutes authorization of the project. authorized by Congress, funded by Federal and non-Federal Once a project is authorized, further studies may be re­ sources, and constructed by the Corps under the Civil quired to confirm the basic plan presented to Congress. Works Program.

T

ttowir, CotstfttS# 7 Appropriation of money to build a particular project is The purpose of flood control works is to regulate floodflows usually included in the annual Energy and Water Develop­ and thus prevent flood damage. In addition, the Flood Con­ ment Appropriations Bill, which must be approved by both trol Act of 1944 provided that “ flood control” shall include Houses of the Congress and the President. channel and major drainage improvements. These objec­ Budget recommendations are based on evidence of support tives are accomplished with structural measures, such as res­ by the State and by the ability and willingness of non- ervoirs and local protection works, or with nonstructural Federal sponsors to provide their share of the project cost. measures which alter the way people would otherwise occupy or use the flood plain. Reservoirs constructed for flood control storage often in­ Navigation clude additional storage capacity for multiple-purpose uses Federal interest in navigation improvements stems from the such as water for municipal and industrial use, navigation, Commerce Clause of the Constitution and from subsequent irrigation, development of hydroelectric power, conserva­ decisions of the Supreme Court to the effect that the Federal tion of fish and wildlife, and recreation. obligation to regulate navigation and commerce also in­ Local protection works are turned over to non-Federal cludes the right to make necessary improvements. The authorities for maintenance, as are small reservoirs with a Corps of Engineers was first assigned responsibility for im­ local impact. proving rivers and harbors in 1824. Today, the Corps is re­ The Corps fights our Nation’s flood problems not only by sponsible for construction of, as well as operation and main­ constructing and maintaining flood control structures but tenance of, Federal river and harbor projects. also by providing detailed technical information on flood The system of harbors and inland waterways remains one of hazards. Under the Flood Plain Management Services Pro­ the most important parts of our Nation’s transportation sys­ gram, the Corps provides (on request) flood hazard infor­ tem. Without constant supervision, rivers and other water­ mation, technical assistance, and planning guidance to other ways collect soil, debris, and other types of obstacles which Federal agencies, States, local governments, and private in­ lead to groundings and wrecks. New channels and cutoffs dividuals. These items are designed to be an aid in planning appear frequently; they and the main traffic lanes require for floods and providing for the regulation of flood plain diligent patrolling. Where authorized to do so, the Corps areas, thus avoiding unwise development in flood-prone maintains our Nation’s waterways in navigable condition areas. As an example, if community officials know what for both business and recreational purposes, benefiting the areas flood in their community and how often this could economy and helping prevent the loss of lives. occur, they then can take necessary action to prevent or minimize damages to existing and new buildings and facil­ Flood Control and Flood ities by adopting and enforcing zoning ordinances, building codes, and subdivision regulations. Plain Management The Flood Plain Management Services Program also pro­ Federal interest in flood control began in the alluvial valley vides assistance to other Federal agencies and to State agen­ of the Mississippi River in the 19th century when the interre­ cies in the same manner. Flood hazard data are developed lationship of flood control and navigation became apparent. and provided on request to the extent and detail needed so Corps authority for flood control work was extended in that those agencies can properly consider the flood hazards 1936 to embrace the entire country. After a series of dis­ in the execution of their programs. astrous floods affecting wide areas, including transportation systems, it was recognized that the Federal Government should participate in the solution of problems affecting the Shore and Hurricane Protection public interest when they are too large or complex to be han­ The Corps’ work in shore protection began in 1930, when dled by State or local organizations. Congress directed the Corps to study ways to reduce erosion

8 along U.S. seacoasts and the Great Lakes. Although each available at Corps of Engineers reservoir projects. The situation the Corps studies requires different considerations, Water Supply Act of 1958, as amended, establishes a policy engineers look at each one with structural and nonstructural of Federal participation and cooperation with States and solutions in mind. Engineering feasibility and economic effi­ local interests in developing water supplies for domestic, ciency are considered along with the environmental and municipal, and industrial purposes in connection with Fed­ social impacts. eral navigation, flood control, or multiple-purpose projects. Recommendation for Federal participation is based on Under this act, the Corps can include storage space for shore ownership, use, and type and the incidence of bene­ municipal and industrial water supply purposes in reser­ fits. If there is no public use or benefit, Federal participation voirs, provided this is the best use of the resource and non- is not recommended. Maintenance of the restored shore is a Federal interests assume the financial responsibility of the non-Federal responsibility. full costs. The most recent amendment to the 1958 act is in the Water Resources Development Act of 1986. The Corps’ work in hurricane protection began in 1955, when Congress directed the Corps to conduct general inves­ Section 8 of the Flood Control Act of 1944 provides that tigations along the Atlantic and gulf coasts to identify prob­ Corps dam and reservoir projects may be used for irrigation lem areas and determine the feasibility of protection. in the 17 Western States if recommended by the Secretary of the Interior in conformance with the Reclamation Act of Hydropower 1902. In other States, the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 permits the inclusion of agricultural water The Corps has played a significant role in meeting our supply storage in Corps reservoir projects and establishes Nation’s electric power generation needs by building and that non-Federal interests should pay 35 percent of the con­ operating hydropower plants in connection with its large struction costs and 100 percent of the operation, mainte­ multiple-purpose dams. In a series of laws and resolutions nance, and replacement costs. dating back to the River and Harbor Act of 1909, Congress has directed the Corps of Engineers to give cpnsideration in Environmental Quality its reports to various water uses, including hydroelectric power. In conducting its Civil Works Program, the Corps must comply with many environmental laws or Executive orders The Corps continues to consider the potential for hydro­ and numerous regulations relating to the environment. Con­ electric power development during the planning process for sideration of the environmental impact of a Corps project all water resources projects involving dams and reservoirs. begins in the early stages and continues through design, con­ In most instances, however, hydropower facilities at Corps struction, and operation of the project. The Corps must also projects are now developed by non-Federal interests without comply with many of these environmental regulations in Federal assistance. The Corps becomes involved with plan­ conducting its regulatory programs as discussed below. The ning, constructing, and operating hydropower projects only National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 is the when it is impractical for, non-Federal interests to do so. national charter for the protection of the environment, and its procedures ensure that public officials and private citi­ Water Supply zens may both obtain and provide environmental informa­ Water supply is of vital interest to the economy and security tion before Federal agencies make decisions concerning the of our Nation. Full consideration is given to water supply in environment. Corps of Engineers project planning proced­ the planning, construction, and operation of river basin ures under NEPA often point out the need for preparation works. Under Section 6 of the Flood Control Act of 1944, of more extensive environmental studies; namely, environ­ the Secretary of the Army is authorized to make contracts mental impact statements. In selecting alternative project with States, municipalities, private concerns, or individuals designs, the Corps strives to choose options with minimal for domestic and industrial use of surplus water that may be environmental impact.

9 Regulatory Programs to allow “the construction, maintenance, and operation of such facilities.” It also provides that the water areas of proj­ Under its regulatory program, the Corps of Engineers has ects shall be open to public use — generally for boating, regulatory authority for work on structures in navigable fishing, and other recreational purposes. waterways under Section 10 of the River and Harbor Act of 1899 and for the discharge of dredged or fill material into Emergency Response and Recovery “ waters of the United States,” which includes wetlands and other valuable aquatic areas. The standard permit evalua­ Corps assistance for emergency/disaster response and re­ tion process includes issuing a public notice, designating a covery is available under Corps authorities such as Public public comment period, and holding a public hearing before Law 99, 84th Congress (under the Flood Control and the Corps makes a permit decision. Coastal Emergencies appropriation), and under Public Law 93-288 and Executive Order 12148 in support of other agen­ The Corps’ regulatory program focuses primarily on weigh­ cies, particularly the Federal Emergency Management ing the economic and environmental benefits of develop­ Agency. Corps response activities under the Public Law 99, ment versus ecosystem preservation in deciding whether a 84th Congress, authority include the following: emergency permit for a proposed activity would be “contrary to the operations (e.g., flood fight, search, and rescue and emer­ public interest.” When reviewing permit applications, the gency relief activities); emergency repair and restoration of Corps looks at all the relevant factors, including conserva­ flood control works which are threatened, damaged, or de­ tion, economics, esthetics, general environmental concerns, stroyed by flood; emergency protection, repair, or restora­ historic values, wetland values, fish and wildlife values, tion of Federal hurricane or shore protective structures flood damage prevention, land use classifications, naviga­ threatened, damaged, or destroyed by wind, wave, or water tion, recreation, water supply, water quality, energy needs, action of other than ordinary nature; preventive work done food production, and the general welfare of the public. before flooding when conditions pose a flood threat to life The Corps of Engineers has issued a number of nationwide or property; provision of emergency supplies of potable general permits for minor activities. These permits require water to any locality or individuals confronted with a source little or no processing. The separate Corps of Engineers Dis­ of contaminated drinking water that would or is likely to tricts have also issued regional general permits for certain cause a substantial threat to public health and welfare; and types of minor work in specific areas which also require only drought-related assistance, such as the construction, recon­ minimal processing. These general permits reduce the delays struction, or repair of wells and the transportation of water and paperwork burden involved with individual Department to farmers, ranchers, and political subdivisions in drought- of the Army permits while maintaining environmental safe­ distressed areas. guards. In support of FEMA’s disaster response and recovery activ­ ities, Corps mission assignments have included emergency Recreation debris removal, preliminary damage assessments, detailed The Flood Control Act of 1944, as amended, provides damage survey reports, temporary housing construction, authority “to construct, maintain, and operate public park emergency snow removal, contracting and construction and recreational facilities” at water resources development management, and other support which makes use of the projects under the control of the Secretary of the Army and Corps’ engineering, contracting, and construction expertise.

10 R if A I s —# — ts n e m e v o r p Im l e n n a h C her I ovements n e m e v ro p Im r e th O toie Crso Egnes Projects Engineers of Corps uthorized atng Dam ■■■■ ■ ■ ■ m a D g tin la u g e r e R Pr ecton ^ n tio c te ro P l a c o L s e e v e L n CnrsinlDi rct tric is D Congressional One ne Construction Under te Projects Other o Started Not Completed 11 Chapter II Missouri River Tributary Basins Missouri River Tributary Basins (Missouri River Division— Omaha District) The combined drainage areas of Missouri River tributary basins in Wyoming encompass about 71,600 square miles or nearly three-fourths of the State’s area. These basins are the Upper Missouri (1 percent), the Yellowstone (48 percent), the Western Dakota Tributaries (16 percent), and the Platte- Niobrara (35 percent). The Bighorn, Tongue, and Powder River about 183 miles upstream from its mouth. In the past, Rivers, all upstream tributaries to the Yellowstone River, major damages have been caused by severe ice-jam floods originate in Wyoming, as do the Western Dakota Trib­ and by open-water floodflows resulting from heavy rains utaries of the Little Missouri, Belle Fourche, and Cheyenne and snowmelt. Local interests had provided adequate pro­ Rivers and the Niobrara River. tection against minor floods by building levees and a num­ The North Platte River originates in northern Colorado and ber of jetties. Also, rock and other types of bank protection follows a sweeping course through southeastern Wyoming had been placed along the riverbank. These measures, how­ before entering Nebraska. Its principal tributary, the Lara­ ever, were not sufficient protection against the major mie River, also originates in Colorado and follows a north­ floods. easterly course into Wyoming to its confluence with the Several dams and reservoirs in the Bighorn River basin up­ North Platte River in the vicinity of Fort Laramie. stream from Greybull were authorized by the Flood Control The Continental Divide angles from the northwestern corner Act of 1944 for construction by the Bureau of Reclamation. of Wyoming to the south-central border, marking the west­ Boysen Dam, located on the Bighorn River, was completed ern limits of the basins. The Absaroka, Wind River, Big­ in 1952. Upstream projects, particularly Boysen Dam and horn, and Laramie mountain ranges dominate the topog­ Reservoir, reduce peak flows at Greybull during open-water raphy of the State and influence its climate, which is arid. floods caused by general storms similar to the one in Sep­ Population is sparse, with about 4.9 persons per square tember 1923, when approximately one-half of the town was mile; approximately 138,000 people, roughly 29 percent of inundated to a depth of about 3 feet. The reservoirs have the State’s population, reside in the cities of Cheyenne, little effect, however, on ice-jam floods because the runoff Casper, Laramie, and Sheridan. and ice originate downstream from the reservoir sites. The activities of the Corps of Engineers have generally been The Greybull local flood protection project consists of ap­ directed toward basinwide studies and the development of a proximately 13,675 feet of levee along the left bank of the few local protection projects. Bighorn River. Existing levees were incorporated into the plan wherever possible, and three sections of the riverbank Completed Flood Control Projects and levee were protected from erosion by rock riprap. Con­ struction was initiated in June 1958 and completed in July Greybull Local Protection Project 1959. The Federal cost of the project was $248,507 and the (Omaha District) non-Federal cost was $101,000. Since its completion, the Business and residential sections of Greybull are located al­ project has prevented more than $4,345,000 in flood most entirely within the left-bank flood plain of the Bighorn damages.

Greybull Local Protection Project

13 Multiple-Purpose Projects Underway the Pick-Sloan name to the comprehensive plan composed of all those projects that were part of either of the separate Comprehensive Plan, Missouri River Basin plans merged in 1944. (Missouri River Division) The original blueprint for the basin featured 98 reservoirs The Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program (Pick-Sloan plan) storing about 85 million acre-feet of water for multiple uses. began when the Flood Control Act of 1944 authorized a The plan also provided for levees and floodwalls to protect comprehensive basin plan formed from separate proposals municipalities and industrial areas plus levees on both banks recommended by the Bureau of Reclamation and the Corps of the Missouri River from Sioux City, Iowa, to the mouth of Engineers. Projects in the plan included flood control, near St. Louis, Missouri. The levees would protect hundreds irrigation, hydroelectric power, improved navigation on the of thousands of acres of bottom land from floods. lower Missouri River, water supply for cities and industry, While the Pick-Sloan plan is historic for its recognition of water quality control, conservation of fish and wildlife, the role of tributary basins and comprehensive planning, the public recreation, and land treatment and enhancement. projects on the main stem of the Missouri River are the cen­ At the start, the plan involved projects authorized in pre­ terpiece of the plan’s success. Six Corps of Engineers lakes on vious acts. For example, the lakes at Fort Peck, Montana; the main stem regulate the runoff from the entire upper half Harlan County, Nebraska; Tuttle Creek, Kansas; Pomme of the basin. The system composed of Fort Peck Dam in de Terre, Missouri; and Cherry Creek, Colorado, are parts Montana; Garrison Dam in North Dakota; Oahe, Big Bend, of the Pick-Sloan plan authorized before 1944. The Kansas and Fort Randall Dams in South Dakota; and Gavins Point City levees and the Missouri River Bank Stabilization and Dam in Nebraska and South Dakota can store 73.9 million Navigation project are also part of the plan despite their acre-feet of water. Within that storage space, 16.3 million earlier authorizations. acre-feet is devoted to flood control. Other uses of storage Just as the Pick-Sloan plan has roots reaching back before include irrigation, hydropower, and navigation downstream 1944, it later grew beyond the first comprehensive plan de­ from Sioux City. In an average year, powerplants in the scribed in the legislation. Some of the projects authorized in main stem dams produce about 10 billion kilowatt-hours of the Missouri River basin after 1944 bear the Pick-Sloan des­ hydroelectric power. The control these lakes provide over ignation while other projects in the basin contribute to water downstream flow is the key to dependable navigation. resources development as independent units. In 1970, Con­ The Reservoir Control Center at the Missouri River Division gress enacted Public Law 95-576 which officially attached office in Omaha coordinates the operation of the six main

14 stem projects. Semiannual public meetings provide a forum icant flooding. Past records indicate that Sheridan has a for State and Federal representatives and private interests to substantial flood an average of every 3 years. recommend goals for the plan that guides regulation of the lakes through each year. The Flood Control Act of 1950 authorized a flood control project at Sheridan consisting of a system of levees and Flood control projects in the Missouri River basin prevented floodwalls in conjunction with channel alterations along over $10.1 billion in flood damages through Fiscal Year Goose Creek and Little Goose Creek. 1988. Visitors spent almost 156 million hours at the lake Stage 1 of the project consisted of levee and channel work projects in the Missouri River Division in 1988, including on Goose Creek downstream from its confluence with Little more than 43 million hours at the six main stem lakes. The Goose Creek, a concrete chute on the latter stream, and a main stem hydroelectric plants produced 8.8 billion kilo­ channel cutoff on Goose Creek just upstream from this con­ watt-hours in the same year. Cumulative power revenues fluence. Stage 1 work was started in August 1961 and com­ from the entire main stem system through 1988 amount to pleted in August 1963. nearly $1.9 billion. Also in 1988, 2.5 million tons of com­ merce traveled on the Missouri River from Sioux City to the Construction of Stage II improvements, levees and channel mouth. alterations on Little Goose Creek, was begun in May 1965 and completed in June 1966. Storage in the main stem lakes assures continued service to all functions during droughts. For example, in 1985, inflow Stage III work, on upper Goose Creek, is in inactive status. to the lakes was about 74 percent of normal. The Corps re­ In accordance with Section 1001 of the Water Resources De­ leased nearly 5 million acre-feet of water from multipurpose velopment Act of 1986, Stage III will be deauthorized on 31 storage before higher-than-normal 1986 runoff replenished December 1989 unless Congress provides construction funds the pools. A more rigorous test began the following year. by that time. In 1987, low mountain snowpack and sparse rainfall pro­ The estimated costs of the overall project are $2,619,000 to duced inflow into the upper basin only 85 percent of the Federal Government and $281,000 to non-Federal inter­ normal. The 1988 runoff of 12.5 million acre-feet was only ests. The partially completed project has prevented an esti­ about 50 percent of the normal 25 million acre-feet for the mated $741,000 in damages through Fiscal Year 1988. same reasons. At the end of 1988, the Corps had withdrawn Associated Projects of Other Agencies 12 million acre-feet from the main stem multipurpose stor­ The Flood Control Act of 1944 assigned the Corps of Engi­ age to serve the project purposes downstream. Inflow to the neers the responsibility of prescribing regulations for the use lakes has been below normal in 6 of the 22 years since the of storage capacity allocated to flood control at reservoirs system first filled to normal operating levels in 1967. constructed wholly or in part with Federal funds. The Corps Besides meeting the project purposes mentioned in the directs releases of water from the flood storage zones. Flood authorizing acts, the main stem lakes have a special relation­ plain areas in the Wyoming portion of the Missouri River ship with two species of birds. The least tern and piping basin benefit from the flood control storage provided by the plover are federally listed as endangered and threatened Bureau’s Keyhole, Boysen, and Glendo Reservoirs. Brief de­ species, respectively. Sandbars, which are exposed down­ scriptions of these reservoirs are given in the following para­ stream from some of the main stem dams when releases are graphs. Other Bureau of Reclamation projects in Wyoming low, attract these birds by providing nesting habitat. From for which the Corps has flood control responsibility are dis­ mid-May through August since 1986, the Corps has adjusted cussed in the Snake River-Green River Basins section of this operations at Garrison, Fort Randall, and Gavins Point booklet. Dams in an effort not to disturb nests or inundate the sand­ bars before chicks are fledged. By the end of 1988, the Corps and the Bureau of Reclama­ tion had 55 Pick-Sloan lakes either complete or under con­ struction. Considering other Missouri River basin projects as well, the two agencies had more than 100 lake projects either complete or under construction. The Corps also com­ pleted 76 local flood protection projects and 29 units of the Missouri River Levee system. Supplementing the planned development, the Corps has completed about 145 small ero­ sion and flood control projects constructed under continu­ ing authorities. Flood Control Projects Underway Sheridan Local Protection Project (Omaha District) Sheridan is located at the confluence of Little Goose Creek and Goose Creek 12 miles upstream from the junction of the latter stream with the Tongue River. A large portion of the municipal area is subject to flooding by both of these streams, which join in the approximate center of the city. Between July 1923 and July 1947, Goose Creek, Little Goose Creek, or both streams simultaneously overtopped their banks on 14 occasions, 8 of which resulted in signif­ Sheridan Local Protection Project—Improved Channel

15 Sheridan Local Protection Project— Concrete Chute through main part of Sheridan Keyhole Dam and Reservoir Glendo Dam and Reservoir Keyhole Dam and Reservoir, located on the Belle Fourche Glendo Dam and Reservoir, located on the North Platte River about 20 miles west of Sundance, was completed in River about 4.5 miles southeast of the town of Glendo, has a 1952. The dam is an earthfill structure with a structural storage capacity of 789,400 acre-feet; 271,900 acre-feet is re­ height of 118 feet and a crest length of about 3,400 feet. served for flood control. The Glendo project and its power- Storage capacity of the reservoir is 334,200 acre-feet, of plant combine with the upstream Fremont Canyon Power- which 140,500 acre-feet is reserved for flood control. The plant and Gray Reef Dam to form the Glendo Unit. Glendo reservoir prevents damage to farm property, rural roads, Dam is an earthfill structure with a structural height of 167 and bridges along the Belle Fourche River and enhances the feet and a crest length of 2,096 feet. The Glendo Unit is protection provided by the existing Corps of Engineers levee operated in conformity with the Supreme Court North project at Belle Fourche, South Dakota. It is estimated that Platte River Decree of 1945. The unit furnishes a maximum this project has prevented $1,781,000 in flood damages of 40,000 acre-feet of water annually for irrigation in Wyo­ through 1988. ming and Nebraska. Electrical power is supplied by the Boysen Dam and Reservoir Glendo and Fremont Canyon Powerplants which have in­ stalled capacities of 24,000 and 48,000 kilowatts, respec­ Boysen Dam and Reservoir, located on the Bighorn River in tively. In addition, the storage available in Glendo Reservoir Fremont County, was completed in 1952. The dam is an makes year-round power operation benefits possible at earthfill structure with a structural height of 150 feet and a Fremont Canyon Powerplant without loss of storage to the crest length of about 1,143 feet. The reservoir capacity is North Platte River system. Through 1988 the project is 952,400 acre-feet; 150,400 acre-feet of this total is for flood credited with preventing an estimated $28,905,000 in flood control and an additional 146,100 acre-feet is for joint con­ damages. servation and flood control use. The project includes a powerplant with a capacity of 15,000 kilowatts. Through Other Bureau of Reclamation Projects 1988 the project has prevented flood damages estimated to Some Bureau of Reclamation projects have provided inci­ be $27,968,000. dental flood control benefits without authorized flood con- 16 trol storage. These projects, with the benefits provided sion control measures, costing a total of $30,700, were pro­ through 1988, are as follows: Alcova Reservoir, $193,000; vided to protect the city water intake at Lovell. Buffalo Bill Reservoir, $3,189,000; Bull Lake Reservoir, Flooding during June 1981 caused severe streambank ero­ $1,898,000; Guernsey Reservoir, $439,000; Pathfinder Res­ sion along the left bank of the Shoshone River adjacent to ervoir, $4,752,000; and Seminoe Reservoir, $9,837,000. the sewage lagoon for the town of Byron. To prevent further Work Under the Continuing Authorities erosion, the Corps constructed 830 feet of stonefill revet­ ment with a 50-foot windrow refusal along the eroding Program bankline. Work was completed in May 1984 at a cost of Work performed by the Corps of Engineers under the Con­ $138,450. tinuing Authorities Program in the Missouri River tributary High flows in June 1986 caused the Medicine Bow River to basins in Wyoming is discussed in the following paragraphs. widen its channel threatening a county bridge and library in Small Flood Control Projects Elk Mountain. The Corps constructed bank protection that Nowood River at Manderson (Omaha District). In March consisted of 250 feet of stone revetment and a 25-foot-long 1987, the Omaha District initiated a reconnaissance study windrow refusal. Work was completed in September 1986 at under the authority of Section 205 of the flooding problems a cost of $35,482. on the Nowood River at Manderson. The reconnaissance study was completed in April 1989. Of the feasible flood Work Under the Technical Assistance control alternatives that exist, a levee appears to be the best alternative. The study recommends that more detailed feasi­ Programs bility-phase studies be conducted. Assistance provided to the State of Wyoming under the Corps Technical Assistance Programs is described in the Emergency Bank Protection following paragraphs. In 1946, under Section 14 authority, the Corps repaired, re­ stored, and strengthened an existing levee that had been Flood Plain Management Services Program built by local interests at Greybull. The Federal cost was The Flood Plain Management Services Program has pro­ $14,180. Ice-jam flooding in 1947, 1960, and 1962 damaged vided for numerous services over the years to public and pri­ portions of the levee, and the Corps made further repairs at vate entities in an effort to achieve flood damage reduction. Federal costs of $2,470, $4,100, and $6,530, respectively. This effort has been in the form of published studies such as the flood plain information and other reports listed below In 1948, the Corps of Engineers provided erosion control and numerous unpublished studies and technical assistance. measures on the Shoshone River, at a cost of $2,000, to pro­ tect U.S. Highway 310 and a county road west of Lovell. In The reports listed below have been completed for streams in 1958 and again in 1963, emergency bank protection and ero­ southeastern Wyoming.

Bureau of Reclamation ’s Glendo Dam and Reservoir 17 The reports listed below have been completed for streams in southeastern Wyoming. Flood Plain Information Reports

Locality Sponsoring Agency Status______

Casper Metropolitan Region City of Casper Vol. I, Garden Creek, completed February 1969 Vol. II, Sage Creek, completed April 1970

Cheyenne Metropolitan Region City of Cheyenne Vol. I, Dry Creek, completed April 1969 Vol. II, Crow Creek, completed June 1970 Vol. Ill, North Platte River at Casper, completed March 1973

Deer Creek at Glenrock City of Glenrock Special Flood Hazard Information Report, completed December 1971

Natrona County Natrona County Report on North Platte River, completed February 1976

Planning Assistance to States Program The Planning Assistance to States Program was authorized by Section 22 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-251), as amended. The Section 22 pro­ thority of Public Law 99, 84th Congress, the Corps has par­ gram was established by Congress to enable states to utilize ticipated on many occasions in the removal of people, prop­ Corps of Engineers’ planning expertise in the preparation of erty, and livestock from flooded areas and has assisted in comprehensive plans for the development, utilization, and flood fighting operations in a number of the major stream basins. conservation of the water and related land resources of drainage basins located within the boundaries of a state. The Public Law 93-288—Major Disaster Recovery assistance can be provided to any public entity as long as it is Wyoming Disaster, May 1978 (Omaha District). Severe consistent with the state’s water resources planning objec­ storms in the State of Wyoming combined with mud slides tives. The priority of the work is established by the state. to cause a disaster situation during May 1978. Eleven coun­ The Omaha, Sacramento, and Walla Walla Districts serve ties were included in the Presidentially declared disaster the State of Wyoming. The Omaha District has been desig­ area. In cooperation with the Federal Disaster Assistance nated as the lead District for the Section 22 program in Administration (now the Federal Emergency Management Wyoming. Agency), the Omaha District completed 50 damage surveys. Fiscal Year 1989 efforts focused on establishing a multiyear Reimbursement in the amount of $50,143 was recommended Section 22 program for the State of Wyoming. At this time, for public entities sustaining damages. the State of Wyoming has no planning assistance studies Cheyenne Tornado, July 1979 (Omaha District). Following scheduled for Fiscal Year 1990 within the Missouri River the devastating tornado that struck Cheyenne in July 1979, basin (Omaha District). For Fiscal Year 1991, the State the Omaha District cooperated with the Federal Emergency plans to have the Corps of Engineers evaluate the stream- Management Agency. The Corps assisted in the reimburse­ bank erosion problems on Baldwin and Squaw Creeks near ment of eligible damages incurred by the State, Laramie Lander. County, and the city and also assisted in the provision of Technical and Engineering Assistance on temporary housing for residents who had lost their homes in Shore and Streambank Erosion the disaster. In September 1985, the Corps completed a Section 55 Tech­ Cheyenne Flood, August 1985 (Omaha District). The worst nical Assistance report for the State of Wyoming addressing storm in the city of Cheyenne’s history dumped 6.06 inches erosion problems on the North Platte River in Goshen of rain and 2-inch-diameter hail on the city on 1 August County. This program is currently inactive due to the lack of 1985. The result was walls of water 6 feet high in some areas funding. and drifts of hail up to 10 feet deep. Twelve lives were lost. Damages were estimated to be more than $40 million. Work Under Emergency Authorities On 7 August 1985, the President declared Cheyenne and The Corps of Engineers has given emergency assistance to Laramie County a Federal disaster area. The Federal Emer­ Wyoming as described below. gency Management Agency tasked the Corps with several disaster recovery assistance responsibilities, two of which Public Law 99, 84th Congress— were debris removal and protective measures. The Damage Flood-Associated Assistance Survey Team wrote 107 damage survey reports totaling an The Corps of Engineers generally performs rescue opera­ estimated $2.9 million under the Federal Emergency Man­ tions only during severe floods. In Wyoming, under the au­ agement Agency’s Public Assistance Program.

18 On 8 September 1988, the Emergency Operations Center sires of the local interests are fully considered. Also, during was activated to provide District support to fire-fighting the course of each investigation, the Corps study is coordi­ efforts in Yellowstone National Park. The extent of the nated with all interested state and Federal agencies as well as support included locating available contractors with heavy with the local people. duty equipment; determining the number of reservoirs, acre- The findings and recommendations of the District Engineer feet of storage, bridge capacities, and transportation routes; are submitted to the Division Engineer. After successive re­ and preparing the environmental impact analysis. This in­ views by the Division Engineer, the Board of Engineers for formation was assembled and forwarded to Corps officials Rivers and Harbors, and Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of in Washington, D.C. as part of a national effort to assemble Engineers, the report of the Chief of Engineers is prepared. information on the control of fires. The views and comments of local interests are again solicited Survey Investigations during the review by the Board of Engineers for Rivers and Studies of flood and related water resources problems are Harbors, which may also hold public meetings in special conducted by the Corps of Engineers in response to direc­ cases. The report of the Chief of Engineers is subjected to tives by Congress or by the Senate or House Public Works further reviews by the affected states, other Federal agen­ Committee. These directives generally result from action cies, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Secre­ taken by the people living in the affected areas. The studies tary of the Army before it is transmitted to Congress. are assigned to the District Engineer concerned, who holds Following is a list of the studies that have been assigned to public meetings at the beginning of, during, and at the con­ the Corps of Engineers within the Missouri River tributary clusion of his investigation to ensure that the views and de­ basins in Wyoming. Locality Purpose Status Niobrara River, Nebraska, Wyoming, To consider the feasibility of Completion of study deferred and South Dakota (Omaha District) providing flood control measures indefinitely.

Yellowstone River and Tributaries, To review previous reports to Completion of study deferred Montana, Wyoming, and North determine the advisability of indefinitely. Dakota (Omaha District) providing improvements in the reach of the river downstream from Billings, Montana, in the interest of flood control and allied purposes

North Platte River, Nebraska, To determine the advisability of de­ Study reclassified from inactive to Wyoming, and Colorado (Omaha veloping a comprehensive plan for the active status in February 1984. District) use and conservation of water and Study completed in 1989 as part of related land resources of the lower Platte River Basin, Colorado, North Platte River basin Nebraska, and Wyoming study.

Platte River Basin, Colorado, To determine the feasibility of Reconnaissance phase of the study Nebraska, and Wyoming (Omaha providing flood control measures in completed in Fiscal Year 1989. Study District) the Platte River basin and to deter­ recommended flood control studies be mine the level of Federal interest in conducted on Dry and Crow Creeks development of these measures at Cheyenne under the Corps’ Continuing Authorities Program. Urban Studies A brief description of a study conducted by the Omaha Dis­ permit under the Clean Water Act to construct the Deer trict under the Urban Studies Program in the State of Wyo­ Creek project in southeast Wyoming. The purpose of the ming is presented below. project is to supply municipal and industrial water for the Metropolitan Denver and South Platte River and Trib­ city of Casper and numerous other small communities along utaries, Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska (Omaha Dis­ the North Platte River. The Corps of Engineers had the lead trict). The purpose of this urban study was to develop an in­ responsibility for preparing the EIS for the project. The tegrated water and related land management program that Draft EIS was released for comment in September 1986. The would support and complement existing programs in the Final EIS was completed in September 1987. The permit was South Platte River basin. The study was completed in Jan­ issued in May 1988. uary 1980 and the report was submitted to Congress in Sep­ tember 1984. The report did not recommend any projects in Sandstone Project Wyoming; however, it provided an assessment of water The Wyoming Water Development Commission applied to quality problems in the city of Cheyenne and identified al­ the Corps of Engineers in July 1986 for a Section 404 permit ternative plans for resolving them. to construct the Sandstone project in south-central Wyoming. The purpose of the project is for municipal, in­ Special Studies dustrial, and agricultural water supply. The Corps of Engi­ neers has the lead responsibility for preparing the EIS. The Deer Creek Project Draft EIS was completed in February 1988. A Supplemental The Wyoming Water Development Commission applied to Draft EIS was completed in April 1989. The Final EIS was the Corps of Engineers in January 1985 for a Section 404 scheduled for completion in 1989. 19 15 Steps to a Civil Works Project Action by Local People if They Perceive 1 Water Resources Problems Local officials talk to Corps about available Federal programs. Tech­ nical assistance and some small projects can be accomplished with­ out congressional authorization. Local officials contact congressional delegation If study authorization is required.

2 Action by Congressional Delegation and Congress Member of Congress requests study authorization through Public Works Committees. Committee resolution adopted if report was previously prepared on water problems in area. Legislation normally required if no Corps report exists.

3 Initial Funding of Study Study assigned to Corps District office. Funds to complete reconnaissance phase (12 months) Included in President’s budget. Appropriations for reconnaissance phase provided in annual Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill.

4 Accomplishing the Study District conducts reconnaissance phase. If study continues beyond reconnaissance phase, local sponsors will be required to share the costs of the feasibility phase. Public involvement is an integral part of planning process, including review of draft report and draft environmental Impact statement (EIS). Study conducted under Federal Principles and Guidelines. Funds Included annually In President’s budget; annual appropriations needed to continue study. Study results in feasibility report and EIS which are submitted to Corps Division (regional) office.

5 Division (Regional) Review Division office, which reviews District work during planning process, completes technical review of final District feasibility report and EIS. Division Engineer submits report to review board or commission and Issues public notice inviting comments. Review by Board of Engineers for Rivers and Harbors (CEBRH) 6 and Washington Level Review Center (WLRC) CEBRH and WLRC conduct review of report and submit views and recommendations to Chief of Engineers. Comments from public fully considered In CEBRH action.

7 Preparation of Chief of Engineers Report Proposed report of Chief of Engineers and final EIS sent to heads of Federal agencies and Governors of affected states for comment. Final EIS filed with the Environmental Protection Agency and made available to public. Chief of Engineers considers comments on proposed report and EIS, prepares final report, and submits it to the Secretary of the Army.

The following a re p o rt of the Ghief ot Engineers O Administration Review ^oncerrvng c-lean-up and development of Brown bottom Creek n««- Anytewn In the county of Square ^ lo tk . (Vtichijah. Chief of Engineers’ report reviewed by Assistant Secretary of the Army The following report contains *tud«es done of the area end recommervdations for creaf ingf a recreation s tu d j Johff Apr ,improve ¡0 th i» t rk » l iV o l*-)y Or-r^e«.» ry <• relates to President’s programs. D a ily , y y fV V ' w :Htl-(*• s>c- Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) transmits Chief of Engineers’ report to Congress.

20 5/ Preconstruction Engineering and Design (PED) The Corps can continue planning and design pending congressional authorization of proposal. This process is called PED. Funds included The following* is e. b f ft>r thff locdl pnpdie'ion and surrourvling persons to which have applet fnr to Congrc^ and have, o c c n g te r r* a i the r^m to h«te sV)j Jone for ,mprove

¡0 ttift t I h y rflv ir ft f«5'f H* j j f * * Vrs.»aVid'C’ tf w ^VK* (** 5>c- «tJtr.« en. .iM h ' I U Congressional Authorization Feasibility reports referred to Committee on Public Works and Trans­ portation in House and Committee on Environment and Public Works in Senate. Civil works projects normally authorized by Water Resources Develop­ ment Act (Omnibus Bill) following committee hearings. Occasionally, Corps proposal is authorized by separate legislation or as part of another bill or, in cases where estimated Federal cost is $15 million or less, by committee resolutions.

I I Plans and Specifications for Project Implementation District completes enough engineering and design and develops plans and specifications for initiating project implementation.

VC. Funding for Project Implementation New projects included in President’s budget based on national prior­ ities and anticipated completion of design, plans, and specifications so that construction contract can be awarded. Budget recommendations supported by evidence of support from state and other non-Federal sponsors responsible for sharing in cost of project. Congress appropriates funds for new starts; normally, this occurs in annual Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill.

a o Contract Between the Federal Government • O and Non-Federal Sponsors Secretary of the Army and appropriate non-Federal sponsors sign formal agreement once Congress has appropriated funds for project implementation to begin. Agreement obligates non-Federal sponsors to participate in implement­ ing, operating, and maintaining project according to requirements established by Congress and the administration.

1 4 Project Implementation Engineering and design continue during implementation process; plans and specifications reviewed by Division offices and sometimes by Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Funds included in President’s annual budget; appropriations required to continue design and implementation. Construction managed by Corps but done by private contractors.

ID Operation and Maintenance For operating and maintaining a Federal project, funds are included in President’s annual budget based on project needs and available funding; congressional appropriations required to continue operation and maintenance. Local flood damage reduction, hurricane protection, and beach erosion projects normally operated and maintained by non-Federal sponsors as part of agreement signed prior to implementation. Corps periodically inspects projects after turning them over to non-Federal sponsors.

21 Chapter III Snake River-Green River Basins

22 Snake River-Green River Basins (North Pacific Division— Walla Walla District) (South Pacific Division—Sacramento District) 1 The Snake River originates in Wyoming on Two-Ocean Plateau on the western slope of the Continental Divide near the south-central border of Yellowstone Park. The small, westerly flowing streams that unite to form the Snake River originate in the highlands at an elevation of about 9600 feet mean sea level. From its junction with the Lewis River, which drains the south-central portion of the park, the Snake River flows about 90 miles southward through pictur­ esque Jackson Hole and past the towering granitic Teton Peaks; it then picks up the Buffalo Fork and Gros Ventre Rivers and turns westward at the mouth of the Hoback River. It flows westward about 20 miles, deeply entrenched in a canyon—a prominent feature that divides several north- south mountain ranges. At the Idaho-Wyoming border, the Snake River turns north- northwest just downstream from its junction with the Greys and Salt Rivers from the south, flows about 50 miles through Swan Valley, and enters the vast Snake River plains near Heise, Idaho. Irrigation development in the Snake River basin is limited because of the topography, soils, and climate and is confined almost entirely to the Jackson Hole area and the Salt River basin. About 48,000 acres of land are irrigated in the Wyoming portion of the Salt River basin and about 31,000 acres are irrigated in the Jackson Hole area. In Jackson Hole, meadow hayfields are irrigated to grow feed for large numbers of beef cattle and horses. Dude ranches and trail riding are major recreation attractions which require the use of many saddle horses. The economy of the Jackson Hole area of Wyoming, including the lower utaries to the Green River in Wyoming are Blacks Fork and reaches of the Buffalo Fork and Gros Ventre Rivers, is de­ Hams Fork. The Great Divide Basin has only one perennial pendent on ranching and the tourist trade. Fishing, hunting, stream, a few perennial lakes, and numerous intermittent winter sports, and the magnificent scenery attract tourists streams and lakes. Precipitation in the basin is sparse except from all points of the compass. The city of Jackson, with a in the mountains where it occurs mostly as snow. 1980 population of 4,504, is the largest urban center. Mineral development is the major industry of the Green The economy of the Salt River valley depends on agricul­ River basin. Oil and natural gas are of primary importance, ture, principally dairy production for local cheese factories and coal, gilsonite, asphalt, phosphate, and soda ash are of and livestock production for meat and wool. Pasture and major importance. Vast reserves of oil shale are present and hay are important crops, though small grains and potatoes offer potential for large future industrial developments. are also grown. Agriculture ranks near mineral production in importance to Currently, and for many past years, flood peaks on the the local economy and is centered around livestock produc­ Snake River in Wyoming have been partly regulated by tion, primarily beef cattle and sheep. Irrigation, with reser­ Jackson Lake Dam. This project is operated in accordance voir regulation of streamflows, is necessary for successful with a plan formulated by the Bureau of Reclamation, the crop production; some cropland is dry farmed, however, in Corps of Engineers, and irrigation interests for the conser­ selected areas where climate and soils are favorable. In vation of water for irrigation, power production, and flood warmer climates, irrigated crops are more diversified and in­ control. The levees constructed along the Snake River in the clude fruits and vegetables. Recreation is becoming increas­ Jackson Hole area by the Corps of Engineers protect almost ingly important to the economy. Large numbers of vaca­ 12,000 acres of agricultural lands from flooding. Irrigation tioners are attracted to the Flaming Gorge National Recrea­ works, public roads and bridges, and the community of Wil­ tion Area, several national forests, and other public lands son are also protected by the levees. with outstanding recreation opportunities. Also popular as Under the provisions of its emergency authorities, the Corps recreation spots are numerous State parks, private develop­ of Engineers has participated in flood fighting and has con­ ments, and winter sports areas. structed emergency flood protection measures at various lo­ At present, there are no existing or authorized Corps of En­ cations throughout the Snake River basin. gineers projects in the Green River basin. Corps activities in The Green River basin is a roughly triangular area in south­ the basin have included extensive study of water resources western Wyoming, northwestern Colorado, and northeast­ development and related needs, cooperating in the projects ern Utah. The basin encompasses about 48,600 square miles of other agencies, and engaging in emergency flood control and includes the Great Divide Basin, a closed area in south- work. Facilities are needed for flood control, water supply, central Wyoming with no outlet to the sea. The Green River and basin protection. Additional recreation facilities and is the largest single tributary to the Colorado River. Trib- supporting services are also needed.

23 Completed Flood Control Projects of Engineers. Studies are currently underway to determine which levees are economically justified to maintain. A deci­ Jackson Hole, Snake River sion document was scheduled for completion in November (Walla Walla District) 1989. A serious flood problem existed along the Snake River in the Jackson Hole area in the vicinity of Wilson; it involved a Associated Projects of Other Agencies reach of valley bottom land some 20 miles in length and varying in width from one-half mile to 2 miles. Flood con­ Jackson Lake Reservoir trol works to protect the upper 14 miles of the valley, which Jackson Lake Reservoir protects agricultural areas in Wyo­ comprises a major portion of this area, were authorized by ming and operates in conjunction with other projects to pro­ the Flood Control Act of 1950, and construction was started vide substantial control in the downstream reaches of the in November 1957. The project, completed in May 1964, Snake River. No Federal investment was made for flood provides protection to about 12,000 acres of agricultural control storage space in Jackson Lake Reservoir at the time land. of initial financing and construction; however, exchange space for flood control has been provided in Jackson Lake The project consists of revetted levees that extend along the Reservoir under an agreement related to the operation of right bank from a point slightly more than 10 miles up­ joint-use storage in Palisades Reservoir in Idaho. Up to stream from the Jackson-Wilson Bridge to 3.5 miles down­ 1,400,000 acre-feet of storage space is available in Palisades stream from the bridge. The works along the left bank con­ Reservoir and Jackson Lake Reservoir for flood control on sist of revetted levees that extend 3.5 miles downstream and a forecast basis in accordance with operating rules. How­ 1.5 miles upstream from the Jackson-Wilson Bridge and a ever, not more than 25 percent of the total storage space re­ section of levee more than 5 miles long upstream from the quired at any time will be made available in Jackson Lake mouth of the Gros Ventre River. Reservoir. This levee project eliminates annual damages to cultivated farmlands, crops, and improvements and protects against, Green River Basin or materially reduces, damages from the less frequent floods The Bureau of Reclamation, in developing plans for the use that affect State highway and county road systems, irriga­ of water in the upper Colorado River basin, requested that tion facilities, and the village of Wilson. Additional new de­ the Corps of Engineers evaluate the flood control aspects of velopment throughout the valley floor area of Jackson Hole several projects in the Green River basin. Studies of the Fon- has further increased the potential flood damages; the levee tenelle Reservoir near Fontenelle, which is in the Seedskadee system provides protection for that new development. The project, and of the Savory-Pothook project near Baggs have levee project is particularly significant to the local economy been completed. in that extensive livestock operations are dependent on pres­ ervation of the limited valley floor areas to provide spring Work Under the Continuing Authorities pastures, hay for winter feed, and shelter for large numbers of livestock that graze surrounding upland areas during the Program summer. Work performed by the Corps of Engineers under the Con­ The Federal construction cost was $2,233,000, with the non- tinuing Authorities Program in the Snake River and Green Federal cost estimated to be $18,500. River basins in Wyoming is discussed in the following para­ graphs. The Water Resources Development Act of 1986 transferred the responsibility for operation and maintenance of the Snagging and Clearing for Flood Control Jackson Hole Levee project, including additions and mod­ Snagging and channel clearing work was performed by the ifications constructed by non-Federal sponsors, to the Corps Walla Walla District in connection with emergency repair

24 work in the Jackson Hole area. This work is described in a the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA). Flood plain in­ following section entitled “ Work Under Emergency Au­ formation for Bitter, Killpecker, and Sweetwater Creeks thorities.” In the spring of 1966, the Sacramento District and Dead Horse Canyon is included in the report, which will performed snagging and clearing work on Blacks Fork at be used by the FIA to establish premium rates for flood in­ Mountain View at a cost of $7,500. surance in the study area. During Fiscal Years 1979 and 1980, 17 sites within the State were investigated by the Sac­ Work Under the Technical Assistance ramento District. Programs Assistance provided to the State by the Walla Walla and Sacramento Districts under the Corps Technical Assistance Programs is described in the following paragraphs. Planning Assistance to States Program Flood Plain Management Services Program The Planning Assistance to States Program is described in the Missouri River Tributaries basin chapter of this The Flood Plain Management Services Program has pro­ booklet. At this time, the State has two planning assistance vided for numerous services over the years to public and pri­ studies scheduled for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 that are vate entities in an effort to achieve flood damage reduction. located within the Green River basin (Sacramento District). This effort has been in the form of published studies such as These studies are (1) assistance in the design of grade control flood plain information reports and special flood hazard in­ structures, diversion structures, and bank stabilization for formation reports and numerous unpublished studies and the Bear River Parkway project at Evanston and (2) an eval­ technical assistance. uation of the severe erosion problem on Bitter Creek near The Walla Walla District prepared a special flood hazard in­ Rock Springs, which contributes to sedimentation problems formation report for the Jackson Hole area. in Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The State of Wyoming does The Sacramento District completed a flood insurance study not currently have any planning assistance studies scheduled of the Rock Springs area in November 1974 at the request of within the Snake River basin (Walla Walla District).

25 Work Under Emergency Authorities During May and June 1984, heavy snowmelt runoff oc­ The Corps of Engineers has given emergency assistance to curred in the Green River basin. The Sacramento District the State of Wyoming as described below. provided technical assistance to local governments in their efforts to alleviate the effects of anticipated flooding. Emergency Work Flood-fighting measures were undertaken along the Little Emergency flood control work has been accomplished at in­ Snake River at Baggs at a cost of about $66,300. termittent locations along the Snake and Gros Ventre Rivers in Jackson Hole since 1925. Until 1948, most of the work Major Flood Emergency Operations was accomplished on a piecemeal basis by State, county, During the spring of 1986, the levee system on the Snake and and local interests. Between 1948 and 1957, the Walla Walla Gros Ventre Rivers experienced severe damage from flood­ District spent approximately $257,000 on emergency levees ing. The Walla Walla District flood fought 17 sites and reha­ in the area. Between 1957 and 1964, work was completed on bilitated 36 sites on the Snake and Gros Ventre Rivers at a about 25 miles of levees from above the mouth of the Gros Federal cost of $2,235,305. The State of Wyoming and Ventre River to 4 miles below the Wilson Bridge. Since 1964 Teton County have also participated in flood fighting and emergency work has been required at a number of locations rehabilitation operations during this timeframe. along those levees. The emergency work was funded by Teton County and the Walla Walla District. Annual costs Survey Investigations have averaged over $400,000 a year for the past 23 years. Studies of flood and related water resources problems are During and following the snowmelt floods from 1971 to conducted by the Corps of Engineers in response to direc­ 1980, the Sacramento District reinforced the levees along tives by Congress or by the Senate or House Public Works Hams Fork to protect the towns of Frontier, Kemmerer, and Committee. These directives generally result from action Diamondville, and the spillway abutment at the Kemmerer taken by the people living in the affected areas. The study is city reservoir was repaired. The cost of this emergency work assigned to the District Engineer concerned, who holds pub­ was $80,500; it is estimated that it prevented about $500,000 lic meetings at the beginning of, during, and at the conclu­ in flood damages to urban and rural properties during the sion of his investigation to ensure that the views and desires snowmelt flood season. In April 1972 an emergency levee of the local interests are fully considered. Also, during the was constructed along the Green River at Daniel, at a cost of course of each investigation, the Corps study is coordinated $36,000, in anticipation of high runoff during the snowmelt with all interested state and Federal agencies as well as with flood season. Following snowmelt floods in the first half of the local people. 1972, levee repairs were performed along the right and left banks of Smiths Fork and rock riprapping was placed at the Additional information about the processing of survey in­ diversion structure upstream from the town of Cokeville; vestigation reports is presented in the section on the Mis­ the cost was about $30,000. Following the flood of May souri River tributary basins under the heading “ Survey In­ 1973, bank protection was accomplished along the right vestigations.” bank of the Little Snake River above the town of Dixon to The following is a list of the studies that have been assigned provide protection to the town and its water supply. The to the Corps of Engineers within the Snake River and Green cost of this work totaled more than $40,000. River basins. Locality Purpose Status Upper Snake River Basin, Jackson Identify and evaluate the Federal Reconnaissance report completed in Hole Area (Walla Walla District) interest in potential solutions to flood September 1987. Decision document damage problems along the Snake on the feasibility of levee mainte­ and Gros Ventre Rivers as requested nance was scheduled for completion by Teton County in November 1989.

Colorado River and Tributaries above To investigate the feasibility of devel­ Completion of the overall study is de­ Lees Ferry, Arizona (Sacramento oping improvements in the interest of pendent on future appropriation of District) flood control and related problems on funds. This area was studied under the Colorado River and its tributaries the Green Bay Interim feasibility study, completed in July 1987. Substantial flood problems were identified near the cities of Rock Springs and Green River. Cooperative studies with the city of Rock Springs are continuing under the Section 205 Continuing Authorities Program.

Bear River Basin, Utah, Idaho, and To determine the feasibility of pro­ Study was authorized by the Water Wyoming (Sacramento District) viding flood protection for a predom­ Resources Development Act of 1986. inantly agricultural area of the basin A reconnaissance report was completed in February 1989. Flood problems near the city of Evanston were defined. The city has expressed an interest in pursuing the develop­ ment of a stream management plan under the Section 22 Planning Assist­ 26 ance to States Program. Index Alcova Reservoir...... 17 Baldwin Creek near Lander...... 18 Bear River Basin, Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming...... 26 Bighorn River...... 13,16 Boysen Dam and Reservoir...... 13, 16 Buffalo Bill Reservoir...... 17 Bull Lake Reservoir...... 17 Byron, Shoshone River...... 17 Casper, Flood Plain Information R ep o rt...... 18 Cheyenne Flood, August 1985 ...... 18 Cheyenne, Flood Plain Information R eport...... 18 Cheyenne Tornado, July 1979 ...... 18 Colorado River and Tributaries above Lees Ferry, Arizona...... 26 Comprehensive Plan, Missouri River B asin ...... 14 Congressional Authorization Process...... 20 Deer Creek Project...... 18-19 Evanston, Bear River Parkway...... 25 Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow River...... 17 Glendo Dam and Reservoir...... 15, 16 Glenrock, Special Flood Hazard Information Report .... 18 Goose and Little Goose Creeks...... 15 Green River Basin...... 23-24, 25 Greybull ...... 13,17 Greybull Local Protection Project...... 13 Gros Ventre River...... 24 Guernsey Reservoir...... 17 Jackson Hole, Snake River ...... 23-24 Jackson Lake Reservoir...... 23-24 Keyhole Dam and Reservoir...... 16 Lovell, Shoshone R iver...... 17 Mander son, Nowood River...... 17 Metropolitan Denver, South Platte River and Tributaries, Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska...... 19 Missouri River Tributary Basins...... 12, 13 Natrona County, Flood Plain Information Report...... 18 Niobrara River, Nebraska, Wyoming, and South D akota...... 19 North Platte River...... 13,18 North Platte River, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado...... 19 Pathfinder Reservoir...... 17 Platte-Niobrara River B asin...... 13 Platte River Basin, Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming...... 19 Rock Springs, Bitter C reek...... 25 Sandstone Project ...... 19 Seminoe Reservoir...... 17 Sheridan Local Protection Project...... 15 Shoshone River...... 17 Snake River-Green River Basins...... 23 Squaw Creek near Lander...... 18 Upper Missouri River B asin ...... 13 Upper Snake River Basin, Jackson Hole A re a ...... 26 Western Dakota Tributaries Basin...... 13 Wyoming Disaster, May 1978...... 18 Yellowstone National P a rk ...... 19 Yellowstone River B asin...... 13 Yellowstone River and Tributaries, Montana, Wyoming, and North D akota...... 19 GLOSSARY

Acre-foot: A volume of water equivalent to 1 acre of land covered to a depth of 1 Habitat: The total of the environmental conditions which affect the life of plants foot. and animals.

Advance engineering and design work: Work done by Corps of Engineers in Headwaters: (1) The upper reaches of a stream near its source. (2) The region preparation of a project for construction. where ground waters emerge to form a surface stream. (3) The water upstream from a structure. Agricultural levee: A levee that protects agricultural areas where the degree of Hydraulic earthfill dam: An embankment built up from waterborne clay, sand, protection is usually less than that of a flood control levee. and gravel carried through a pipe or flume.

Alluvial: Of, pertaining to, or composed of sediment deposited by flowing water, Ice jam: Accumulation of ice packed together and piled up, choking the stream as in a riverbed, flood plain, or delta. channel, and causing a rise in water level above the jam.

Appropriation: The setting aside of money by Congress, through legislation, for a Jetty: A structure similar to a groin built on a seashore or riverbank to prevent specific use. erosion due to currents and/or tide.

Arch-gravity structure: A structure which derives its resistance to the pressure Joint-use storage: Reservoir storage space which is used for more than one pur­ of water from both an arching effect and its own weight. pose. The operation may follow a fixed predetermined schedule or may be flexible and subject to adjustment, depending on particular hydrologic conditions. Authorization: House and Senate Public Works Committees resolutions or spe­ cific legislation which provides the legal basis for conducting studies or construct­ Left or right bank of river: The left-hand or right-hand bank of a stream when ing projects. The money necessary for accomplishing the work is not a part of the the observer faces downstream. authorization but must come from an appropriation by Congress. Levee: A dike or embankment, generally constructed close to the banks of the Bank and channel stabilization: A process to prevent bank erosion and stream, lake, or other body of water, intended to protect the landside from inunda­ channel degradation. tion or to confine the streamflow to its regular channel.

Basin: (1) Drainage area of a lake or stream, such as a river basin. (2) A naturally Mouth of river: The exit or point of discharge of a stream into another stream, a or artificially enclosed harbor for small craft, such as a yacht basin. lake, or the sea.

Concrete gravity structure: A type of concrete structure in which resistance to Oxbow lake: A lake formed in the meander of a stream, resulting from the overturning is provided only by its own weight. abandonment of the meandering course due to the formation of a new channel course. Confluence: The place where streams meet. Paleontology: The study of fossils and ancient life forms. Control dam: A dam or structure with gates to control the discharge from the up­ stream reservoir or lake. Reach: A length, distance, or leg of a channel or other watercourse.

Crest length: The length of a dam along its top (crest). Refusal: An extension of revetment that runs back into a channel bank to prevent a revetment structure from being outflanked. Dam: A barrier constructed across a valley for impounding water or creating a reservoir. Reservoir: A pond, lake, tank, basin, or other space, either natural or created in whole or in part by the building of a structure such as a dam, which is used for Damages prevented: The difference between damages without the project and storage, regulation, and control of water. the damages with the project in place. Revetment: (1) A facing of stone, concrete, or sandbags to protect a bank of Degree of protection: The amount of protection that a flood control measure is earth from erosion. (2) A retaining wall. designed for, as determined by engineering feasibility; economic criteria; and social, environmental, and other considerations. Revetted levee: A stone- or concrete-faced embankment to prevent a river from overflowing. Dike: An embankment to confine or control water. Riprap: A layer, facing, or protective mound of randomly placed stones to prevent Diversion channel: (1) An artificial channel constructed around a town or other erosion, scour, or sloughing of a structure or embankment; also, the stone so point of high potential flood damages to divert floodwater from the main channel to used. minimize flood damages. (2) A channel carrying water from a diversion dam. Rock dike: An embankment built principally of rock. Earthfill dam: A dam with its main section composed principally of earth, gravel, sand, silt, and clay. Sill: (1) A horizontal beam forming the bottom of the entrance to a lock. (2) A low, submerged dam-like structure built to control riverbed scour and current speeds. Flood capacity: (1) The flow carried by a stream or floodway at bankfull water level. (2) The storage capacity of the flood pool at a reservoir. Spillway: A waterway on a dam or other hydraulic structure used to discharge ex­ cess water to avoid overtopping of a dam. Flood plain: Valley land along the course of a stream which is subject to inunda­ tion during periods of high water that exceed normal bankfull elevation. Stage: The elevation of the water surface above or below an arbitrary datum.

Flood proofing: Techniques for preventing flood damage to the structure and Standard project flood: A flood that may be expected from the most severe com­ contents of buildings in a flood hazard area. bination of meteorological and hydrological conditions that are reasonably char­ acteristic of the geographical region involved, excluding extremely rare combina­ Floodwall: A wall, usually built of reinforced concrete, to confine a stream to pre­ tions. vent flooding. Tributary: A stream or other body of water that contributes its water to another Gilsonite: A natural black bitumen used in the manufacture of acid, alkali, and stream or body of water. waterproof coatings. Visitor-hour: The presence of one or more persons in an area of land or water for Groin: A wall-like structure built perpendicular to the bank to prevent beach the purpose of engaging in one or more recreation activities during continuous, erosion. intermittent, or simultaneous periods of time totaling 60 minutes.

28 U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1990 755-590