The Kemmerer-Diamondville Water & Wastewater Joint Powers Board (JPB), in cooperation with the Wyoming State Dam Safety Engineers Office, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and PacifiCorp (Lake Viva Naughton), will begin lowering the water level in the City of Kemmerer Reservoir beginning Friday October 24, 2025.

This action is being taken under the mandate of the Wyoming State Dam Safety Engineers Office to remove water from the reservoir’s main spillway located on the northeast side of the dam. The reservoir will be operated using the low-level outlet works on the southwest side of the dam until necessary repairs to the main spillway can be funded and completed.

The goal is to have water fully removed from the spillway by Friday, October 24th, if conditions allow. This operational change will remain in effect for an indefinite period of time until spillway repairs are completed and approved for normal operation.

As a result of this necessary adjustment, approximately 670 yards of the Hamsfork River immediately below the main spillway will be temporarily dewatered. Water released from the low-level outlet will rejoin the main channel of the Hamsfork River farther downstream—exactly as the dam’s original design intended.

The JPB recognizes the importance of this project for both public safety and long-term infrastructure reliability. Lowering the reservoir level and diverting flow through the low-level outlets ensures the continued safe operation of the dam while mitigating potential structural concerns with the spillway.

The JPB appreciates the cooperation of local residents, recreationists, and stakeholders during this period. Updates will be provided as work progresses and as additional information becomes available.