Cook Lake Reservoir Report

Nearby: French Gose

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cook Lake in Wyoming is a federally owned reservoir located in Crook County near the town of Alva.


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Summary

Managed by the Forest Service, this Earth dam was completed in 1963 for the primary purpose of recreation, including fishing and wildlife viewing. With a height of 37 feet and a storage capacity of 805 acre-feet, this picturesque lake on Beaver Creek offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite its tranquil facade, Cook Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and the surrounding drainage area of 20 square miles. The dam, standing at 40 feet tall, has a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 40 feet. While the condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated," regular inspections are conducted by the Forest Service to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate Cook Lake not only for its recreational opportunities but also for its role in managing water flow and storage in the region. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this reservoir serves as a vital resource for wildlife and a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Wyoming's natural beauty.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

805

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.