Ray Lake
Key Takeaway
Ray Lake is classified as high hazard in Wyoming. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 | 20 ft (taller than 21.5% in WY) |
| Dam Length | 2,350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 540 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 727 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | WY01399 |
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
BIA
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ray Lake?
Ray 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 Ray Lake?
Ray Lake is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ray Lake built?
Ray Lake was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Ray Lake?
Ray Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ray Lake?
Ray Lake has a dam height of 20 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 Ray Lake last inspected?
Ray Lake was last inspected on August 15, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.