Summary
Built in 1925 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 8,660 acre-feet. With a surface area of 540 acres and a drainage area of 5 square miles, Ray Lake plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation, fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
Despite its age, Ray Lake poses a high hazard potential and is classified as Very High risk due to its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Available." The dam has a controlled spillway type with no width specified, and last underwent inspection in August 2012. With a maximum discharge of 727 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk management measures and inundation maps remain unspecified, raising concerns for potential emergencies and the need for updated emergency action plans. Despite these challenges, Ray Lake continues to support the local community and environment through its water supply functions.
As a key feature in the Mill Creek watershed, Ray Lake's significance extends to water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its location in the scenic landscape of Lander, Wyoming, adds to its appeal, drawing attention to the importance of sustainable dam management practices and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and resilience of this vital water resource in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
2350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK - TR - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
540 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
8660 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wind River Near Riverton
|
142cfs |
Wind River At Riverton
|
418cfs |
Wind River Ab Boysen Reservoir
|
659cfs |
Fivemile Creek Near Shoshoni
|
37cfs |
Wind River Near Kinnear
|
410cfs |
Little Popo Agie River Near Lander
|
25cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ray Lake