Steinaker Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Steinaker Reservoir is a small, man-made lake located in northeastern Utah near the town of Vernal.


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Summary

It was created in 1961 by the construction of a dam on the Steinaker Creek, which is a tributary of the Green River. The reservoir has a capacity of 20,000 acre-feet and is used primarily for irrigation and recreation. The hydrology of the reservoir is dominated by snowmelt and runoff from the surrounding mountains, which provide about 70% of the surface flow. The remaining 30% comes from direct precipitation and groundwater. The reservoir is also fed by several small streams and springs. The primary users of the water are local farmers and ranchers, who rely on it for irrigation of crops and pastureland. Recreational activities at the reservoir include boating, fishing, and swimming.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.68%
Percent of Normal 51%
Minimum 42.0 acre-ft
2018-08-26
Maximum 36,643.0 acre-ft
2005-06-07
Average 16,320 acre-ft
Hydraulic_Height 145
Drainage_Area 19
Years_Modified 1994 - Foundation, 1994 - Seismic, 1994 - Structural
Year_Completed 1961
Nid_Storage 40358
Hazard_Potential High
Structural_Height 162
River_Or_Stream ASHLEY CREEK OFFSTREAM
Surface_Area 850
Dam_Length 1997
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 162
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Inflow Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.