The Buffalo Bill Reservoir, located in northwestern Wyoming near the town of Cody, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The reservoir was created by the construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam on the Shoshone River, named after the famous frontier scout and showman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Here is a detailed account of the history of the Lake Buffalo Bill Reservoir:

**Early History:**
The idea of building a dam on the Shoshone River to control flooding and provide irrigation water to the arid region was first proposed in the late 1890s. Following severe flooding in the area in 1902, the U.S. Reclamation Service (now known as the Bureau of Reclamation) began construction of the dam in 1905. The project was overseen by famed engineer Robert B. Marshall and completed in 1910.

**Construction of the Dam:**
The Buffalo Bill Dam is an impressive concrete arch-gravity dam standing at a height of 325 feet and a length of 200 feet. It was one of the first concrete arch dams built in the United States and was considered an engineering marvel of its time. The dam’s construction required skilled labor and engineering expertise, as well as innovative techniques to handle the challenging terrain and weather conditions present in the area.

**Formation of the Reservoir:**
Once the dam was completed, water began to fill the reservoir behind it, creating what is now known as the Buffalo Bill Reservoir. The reservoir covers an area of over 8,000 acres and has a storage capacity of more than 640,000 acre-feet. The stored water is used for irrigation, flood control, and recreation purposes, benefiting the surrounding agricultural communities and ecosystems.

**Role in Agriculture and Economy:**
The water stored in the Buffalo Bill Reservoir has been vital for the development of agriculture in the Bighorn Basin region. The irrigation water provided by the reservoir supports a variety of crops, including sugar beets, barley, and alfalfa, contributing to the local economy and food production. The reservoir has also helped mitigate the effects of droughts and floods, enhancing water security for farmers and ranchers in the area.

**Recreational Opportunities:**
In addition to its practical purposes, the Buffalo Bill Reservoir has become a popular recreational destination for locals and visitors alike. The reservoir offers opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing against the backdrop of the stunning Absaroka Mountains. The area surrounding the reservoir is home to diverse plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

**Legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody:**
The reservoir and dam are named in honor of William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, a legendary figure of the American West known for his Wild West shows and frontier exploits. Buffalo Bill Cody played a significant role in promoting the region and attracting tourists to the area, helping to shape the identity and economy of Cody, Wyoming. The naming of the reservoir after him pays tribute to his enduring legacy and impact on the development of the American West.

**Conclusion:**
The history of the Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a testament to the ingenuity, perseverance, and vision of those who worked to harness the power of the Shoshone River for the benefit of the community. From its construction in the early 20th century to its continued role in supporting agriculture, recreation, and water management, the reservoir remains a cornerstone of the region’s development and heritage. Today, the Buffalo Bill Reservoir stands as a symbol of human innovation and environmental stewardship, reflecting the enduring connection between water, land, and people in the American West.