Big East Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big East, located in Payson, Utah, is a privately owned dam constructed in 1898 primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 29 feet, with a length of 475 feet. Its storage capacity is 980 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 414 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment, Big East is a critical piece of infrastructure in the region. It is situated on Wimmer Ranch Creek and plays a crucial role in water resource management and agricultural activities in the area. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unknown, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to address any potential risks and ensure the safety of downstream communities.

As an Earth-type dam, Big East presents both challenges and opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its essential role in irrigation and water storage, makes it a focal point for sustainable water management practices in the region. With a focus on safety and efficiency, continued oversight and investment in the dam's infrastructure will be crucial for meeting the evolving water resource needs of the community and adapting to changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

475

River Or Stream

WIMMER RANCH CREEK-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

980

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.