Paterson Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Coyote Wall Development Company Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paterson Lake, also known as Rollins Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Uinta, Wyoming.
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Summary
Constructed in 1907, this Earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 1,649 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 200 acres, drawing water from the Black Fork River.
Despite its low hazard potential, Paterson Lake has been rated as having poor condition, with a moderate risk assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one other controlled outlet gate. It is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The surrounding area is monitored for potential risks, demonstrating a commitment to effective risk management measures.
Paterson Lake offers a glimpse into Wyoming's water management practices and its crucial role in supporting irrigation in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this reservoir serves as a valuable case study in balancing water usage for agricultural needs while maintaining the safety and sustainability of the dam infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1907 |
Dam Length |
1650 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
BLACKS FORK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
200 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
1649 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Paterson Lake