Rawlins Peaking Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rawlins Peaking is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in Wyoming, specifically in Carbon County.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 426 acre-feet. It serves primarily as a water supply source, with a normal storage level of 347 acre-feet, ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding area. The dam, designed by Robert Jack Smith, is of the earth type with a stone core and soil foundation, showcasing the ingenuity in engineering design and construction.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Rawlins Peaking poses a high risk, prompting the need for rigorous risk management measures. The dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2017, and a designated inspection frequency of 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam currently has no spillway, it features three outlet valves for controlled water release when needed. The surrounding area, including the city of Alcova, benefits from this critical water infrastructure, highlighting its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Rawlins Peaking represents a vital component of the water supply system in Wyoming, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in the region. As a state-regulated and state-jurisdictional structure, it undergoes rigorous permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. With its strategic location on Sage Creek and a drainage area of 0, the dam plays a key role in water storage and distribution, supporting various purposes beyond water supply. As climate change impacts continue to unfold, the maintenance and enhancement of infrastructure like Rawlins Peaking will be essential in mitigating risks and ensuring water security for the community and surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

3041

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

SAGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

33

Nid Storage

426

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Valve - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.