Trail Lake Storage Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trail Lake Storage Dam, located in Fremont, Wyoming, serves as a crucial water resource for irrigation purposes in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet. It has a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 92 acre-feet, and covers a surface area of 37 acres along Trail Lake Creek.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2019. With a spillway width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge of 280 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in fire protection, stock watering, and maintaining small fish ponds in the area. The dam's location in the picturesque city of Dubois adds to its significance as a key component of the local water resource management infrastructure.

Trail Lake Storage Dam, under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, requires regular inspection and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the condition of such dams are essential for sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. The historical significance and practical importance of Trail Lake Storage Dam make it a valuable asset in the region's water resource and irrigation network.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TRAIL LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

310

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.