Culek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Culek Dam, located in Laramie, Wyoming, serves as a crucial irrigation structure along the Culek Draw river and was completed in 1967.


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Summary

The earth-type dam stands at 23 feet high and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 54 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge of 628 cubic feet per second, the dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in August 2018.

Despite its low hazard potential, Culek Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region, especially for agricultural irrigation purposes. The dam's structural integrity and regulated state jurisdiction by the SEO ensure that it continues to function effectively in providing water storage and distribution for the surrounding area. Its location in Pine Bluffs, Wyoming, highlights its significance in the local water infrastructure and its contribution to water resource management.

With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Culek Dam is subject to periodic inspections every 5 years to ensure its continued safe operation. The dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures are crucial in mitigating any potential risks associated with its operation. As a private-owned structure, Culek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the role of infrastructure in supporting regional water needs, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

CULEK DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.