Laprele Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laprele is a private irrigation dam located in Converse, Wyoming, along the La Prele Creek and North Platte River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1909, this concrete dam stands at a height of 135 feet and has a storage capacity of 26,850 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 20,000 acre-feet. The dam's purpose is primarily for irrigation, serving the surrounding agricultural areas.

Despite its age, Laprele Dam has faced issues with its condition assessment, being rated as unsatisfactory during its last inspection in 2017. With a high hazard potential, the dam's spillway is uncontrolled and measures 85 feet in width. It is important for stakeholders and regulators to address these concerns and ensure the safety and integrity of Laprele Dam to mitigate potential risks to downstream communities and the environment.

Laprele Dam's location in the Omaha District and its association with the Federal agencies have implications for its management and oversight. With Liz Cheney as the Congressional representative, there is a need for collaboration between various agencies and stakeholders to implement risk management measures and ensure that the dam meets safety guidelines. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and maintaining Laprele Dam is crucial for sustainable water management in the region.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

135

River Or Stream

LA PRELE CR, TR N PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

728

Hydraulic Height

133

Drainage Area

188

Nid Storage

26850

Structural Height

135

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

135
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.