James Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Lake, located in Albany County, Wyoming, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural use.


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Summary

Built in 1908, this earth dam stands at 40 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 41,100 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 1,393 acres and is fed by Seven Mile Creek, a tributary of the Little Laramie River.

Despite its age, James Lake is in poor condition and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide gate outlet, with a recent inspection conducted in August 2019. The reservoir serves as a critical source of water for irrigation in the region, supporting agriculture in the area.

With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, James Lake is a valuable asset for the community of Bosler and surrounding areas. As climate change continues to impact water availability, the maintenance and management of this reservoir will be essential to ensure sustainable water supply for agricultural activities in the region.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SEVEN MILE CR, LIT. LARAMIE R.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1393

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

28.1

Nid Storage

41100

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.