Cooper Lake
Key Takeaway
Cooper Lake is classified as high hazard in Alaska. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 52 ft (taller than 75.3% in AK) |
| Dam Length | 920 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 127.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 112.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,100 acres |
| Drainage Area | 31 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | AK00001 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Chugach Electric Association, Inc
Private
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cooper Lake?
Cooper Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cooper Lake?
Cooper Lake is owned by Chugach Electric Association, Inc (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cooper Lake built?
Cooper Lake was completed in 1959, making it 67 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cooper Lake?
Cooper Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cooper Lake?
Cooper Lake has a dam height of 52 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Cooper Lake last inspected?
Cooper Lake was last inspected on August 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.