Peterson Area-Ocean Lake Habitat Unit Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Peterson Area-Ocean Lake Habitat Unit is a federal-owned fish and wildlife pond located in Ocean Lake, Wyoming.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1993, stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. With a surface area of 54 acres and a maximum discharge of 120 cubic feet per second, this habitat unit plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem by providing a source of water for wildlife and aquatic species.

Despite its importance, the Peterson Area-Ocean Lake Habitat Unit is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a recent assessment in June 2020. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but there is a moderate risk associated with its operation. While the habitat unit is regulated and inspected by state agencies, there is room for improvement in its overall management and emergency preparedness. Given its critical role in supporting wildlife and maintaining ecological balance, it is essential to address the dam's condition to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and improvement of infrastructure like the Peterson Area-Ocean Lake Habitat Unit. By raising awareness about the dam's condition and advocating for necessary repairs and upgrades, we can contribute to the sustainability of the local ecosystem and ensure the continued availability of water resources for wildlife and future generations. Let us work together to protect and preserve this important habitat unit for the benefit of both wildlife and the environment.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

3600

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

DRAIN #17.2.3

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.