Bull Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bull Lake, located in Fremont, Wyoming, is a federally owned reservoir managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 80 feet and has a storage capacity of 163,976 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource for the region. The reservoir covers a surface area of 3,157 acres and is fed by Bull Lake Creek, with a maximum discharge capacity of 16,550 cubic feet per second.

The dam underwent modifications in 2003 to enhance its mechanical and structural integrity, ensuring its continued effectiveness in flood risk management. With a high hazard potential and very high risk assessment rating, Bull Lake is closely monitored and inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to maintain its safety and functionality. The reservoir serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife habitat, irrigation, and recreation, making it a valuable asset for the local community and ecosystem.

Despite its high hazard potential, Bull Lake remains a vital water resource in Wyoming, providing essential flood protection and supporting various recreational and environmental activities. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this historic earth dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its scenic location and diverse uses, Bull Lake stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Years Modified

2003 - Mechanical, 2003 - Structural

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

3456

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

BULL LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3157

Hydraulic Height

72

Drainage Area

222

Nid Storage

163976

Structural Height

80

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 4, Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

80
       
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.