Cow Creek Lake, located in Carbon County, Wyoming, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1941 by designer Seymour S.
Wind
Humidity
Sharp. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, serving multiple secondary purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond creation. The lake has a storage capacity of 887 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 44 acres, drawing water from a drainage area of 8.8 square miles.
Despite its historical significance and utility in the region, Cow Creek Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment and outdated infrastructure. The dam reaches a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1733 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway. The last inspection in September 2019 revealed the need for significant maintenance and repairs to ensure the dam's safety and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Cow Creek Lake should be aware of its moderate risk level and the potential for emergency situations. While the dam has a valve-controlled outlet gate, there are concerns about its ability to withstand severe weather events or sudden increases in water flow. Efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness are essential to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding community in Saratoga.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
COW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
8.8 |
Nid Storage |
887 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bottle Creek
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Haskin Creek
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Lost Creek
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Encampment River
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Encampment River Campsite 3
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Encampment River Campsite 1
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