Summary
Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a hydraulic height of 40 feet. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, with a capacity to store 1683 acre-feet of water and covering a surface area of 59 acres. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in August 2020.
Situated on the Lake Creek river, this structure plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, serving the agricultural community in maintaining water supply for irrigation purposes. With its uncontrolled spillway and one valve outlet gate, the dam has been regulated and inspected by the Wyoming State Energy Office, ensuring its continued safe operation. The risk assessment for Lake Creek indicates a moderate level, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to address any potential issues that may arise in the future.
Lake Creek's presence highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts monitor and analyze data on water resources, understanding the infrastructure and operations of dams like Lake Creek provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities for ensuring water security in the region. With its historical significance and functional role in irrigation, Lake Creek stands as a key landmark in the water management landscape of Wyoming, embodying the intersection of human intervention and natural water systems in the context of climate variability.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
778 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
LAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Nid Storage |
1683 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cottonwood C At High Island Rnch Nr Hamilton Dome
|
1cfs |
Greybull River At Meeteetse
|
338cfs |
Wind River Above Red Creek
|
225cfs |
Wind River Near Crowheart
|
1630cfs |
Bull Lake Creek Near Lenore
|
831cfs |
Dinwoody Creek Above Lakes
|
21cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Creek