Sand Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sand Lake, also known as Wheatland Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Carbon County, Wyoming.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the Sacramento District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this reservoir on Deep Creek serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. The earth dam, completed in 1956, stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,660 acre-feet.

With a surface area of 92 acres and a drainage area of 4 square miles, Sand Lake plays a significant role in water management in the region. The reservoir has a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge of 1,250 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition according to its last inspection in August 2018.

Sand Lake is a vital water source in Wyoming, providing essential resources for agriculture and wildlife in the area. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the management and maintenance of reservoirs like Sand Lake are crucial for ensuring water security and sustainability in the region. With its rich history and strategic location on Deep Creek, Sand Lake remains a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

762

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DEEP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

92

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

1660

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.