Cow Creek Lake
Key Takeaway
Cow Creek Lake is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 55% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 887 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 649 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,733 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1941 (85 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2021 |
| NID ID | WY00068 |
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
SILVER SPUR LAND & CATTLE, LLC.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cow Creek Lake?
Cow Creek 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 Cow Creek Lake?
Cow Creek Lake is owned by SILVER SPUR LAND & CATTLE, LLC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cow Creek Lake built?
Cow Creek Lake was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Cow Creek Lake?
Cow Creek Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cow Creek Lake?
Cow Creek Lake has a dam height of 28 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 Cow Creek Lake last inspected?
Cow Creek Lake was last inspected on September 25, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.