Kortes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Seminoe Irene No. 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kortes is a federal-owned concrete dam located on the North Platte River in Carbon, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1950, this multi-arch dam stands at a structural height of 244 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 4,739 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 11,179 square miles, Kortes plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing irrigation for the surrounding region.
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Kortes has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the State Engineer's Office of Wyoming. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is equipped with slide and valve outlet gates for water release. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the condition assessment of Kortes is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital water resource infrastructure.
As a key component of the water management system in Wyoming, Kortes serves as a significant contributor to the region's hydroelectric power supply and water storage capacity. With its strategic location on the North Platte River and its high hazard potential, Kortes underscores the importance of effective risk management and emergency preparedness measures to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding communities from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
244 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
83 |
Hydraulic Height |
200 |
Drainage Area |
11179 |
Nid Storage |
4739 |
Structural Height |
244 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Valve - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
244 |
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.
Kortes
Bunker Draw