Sherwood Estates Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Sherwood Estates Dam, also known as Upper Rainbow Lake Dam, is a public utility structure located in Rainbow Lake Subdivision, Alaska.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Situated in Matanuska-Susitna County, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and is currently assessed as "Not Rated" in terms of condition.

This picturesque dam, nestled in the stunning Alaskan landscape, is regulated by the state with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place. Despite its modest height and volume, Sherwood Estates Dam plays a crucial role in enhancing water resource management and offering recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors. With its buttress core design and unknown foundation type, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure component in the region for both water storage and environmental conservation efforts.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the wonders of Sherwood Estates Dam, its significance in the region becomes evident. From its construction in the 1970s to its present state of operation, this earth dam continues to fulfill its purpose of providing recreational benefits while contributing to the overall water management strategies in the area. With a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, Sherwood Estates Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource development in Alaska's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

225

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.