An Overview of Wyoming's Rivers & Lakes

Largest and Most Famous Water Features

Wyoming is home to several prominent water features. Yellowstone Lake, the largest lake in the state, is situated within Yellowstone National Park and is known for its stunning vistas and fishing opportunities. The Yellowstone River and the Green River are two of the most significant rivers, with the former flowing through the state and the latter starting in the nearby Uinta Mountains. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, a major reservoir on the Green River, is renowned for boating and fishing. Streams like the North Platte River are also well-known for their scenic beauty and recreational use.

Sources of Water

Wyoming's rivers, lakes, and streams are primarily fed by local mountain snowmelt, which influences their seasonal flow. For instance, the Green River, which originates in the Uinta Mountains of Utah, ensures a steady flow into Wyoming. Many reservoirs in the state capture and store water from these rivers for various uses. Additionally, some water bodies may receive contributions from distant sources through interconnected river systems.

Types of Rivers and Waterways

Wyoming features a variety of river types. Major perennial rivers include the North Platte and the Wind River, which have consistent flows throughout the year. Exotic rivers, like the Snake River, offer unique landscapes and recreational opportunities. Tributary rivers, such as the Big Horn River, feed into larger systems, while man-made waterways like irrigation canals help support agriculture. Rapids on rivers like the Snake attract whitewater enthusiasts, and winding rivers such as the Green River provide picturesque scenery.

Types of Lakes

The state hosts various types of lakes. Tectonic lakes like Yellowstone Lake were formed by geological processes, while glacial lakes such as Jenny Lake were created by ancient glaciers. Man-made lakes, including Flaming Gorge Reservoir, were constructed for purposes like hydroelectric power and recreation. Additionally, lakes such as Alcova Reservoir serve agricultural and municipal needs.

Orientation of Rivers

In Wyoming, rivers generally flow from south to north or northwest to southeast, influenced by the state's mountainous terrain. The Green River, for example, flows from the Wind River Range towards Utah, while the North Platte River travels northward through the state. This orientation is typical of many rivers in the region due to the prevailing geological formations.

Origin of Lakes

Many lakes in Wyoming are natural, formed through geological processes such as tectonic activity and glaciation. However, several significant lakes are man-made, including Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Boysen Reservoir, created for purposes like flood control and hydroelectric power. These reservoirs were built by federal and state agencies to meet various water management needs. For example, Flaming Gorge was developed by the Bureau of Reclamation.

Use of Rivers for Transportation

Wyoming's rivers are not major transportation routes for cargo compared to rivers in other states. Most rivers in Wyoming are used primarily for recreational purposes rather than commercial shipping. Consequently, there are no significant cargo transport statistics for Wyoming’s rivers, as they do not support heavy barge or ship traffic.

Presence of Dams

Wyoming has numerous dams across its rivers and lakes. These dams are used for a variety of purposes, including irrigation, power generation, and flood control. Examples include the Boysen Dam, which aids in irrigation and flood management, and the Flaming Gorge Dam, which generates hydroelectric power. Some dams also create reservoirs used for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Recreational Use of Water Bodies

Many of Wyoming's rivers and lakes are popular for recreational activities. Fishing, boating, and house boating are common on reservoirs like Flaming Gorge and on rivers such as the North Platte. Jenny Lake and Yellowstone Lake are also popular spots for recreational fishing and boating. These water bodies offer diverse opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Flooding Issues

Wyoming experiences occasional flooding, particularly during wet years when snowmelt and rainfall can cause rivers to overflow. Areas near levees and floodplains are sometimes at risk of higher water levels, leading to potential property damage. Flooding is typically managed through dam operations and flood control measures, though there can be challenges related to building in flood-prone areas.

Support for Agriculture

Several rivers and reservoirs in Wyoming support the state’s agricultural industry by providing essential irrigation water. The North Platte River, for example, is crucial for irrigation in the region, as are reservoirs like Boysen. These water bodies ensure that crops and livestock receive the necessary water supply for productive agriculture. They play a vital role in sustaining Wyoming's farming and ranching sectors.

Pollution Issues

Wyoming’s water bodies have faced pollution issues, often related to agricultural runoff and industrial activities. Pollutants from livestock operations and mining can impact water quality in some rivers and lakes. Efforts are ongoing to address these issues through state and federal regulations aimed at improving water quality and managing pollution sources.

Future Reservoir Construction

Wyoming is actively evaluating the need for additional reservoirs to support water management and agricultural needs. Planning for new reservoirs often involves assessing water supply needs, environmental impacts, and potential benefits. State and federal agencies are involved in these assessments to ensure that any new projects meet the state's water needs and environmental standards.

Wyoming Rivers, Lakes, Streams, Reservoirs and Water Features