Chester No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chester No.


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Summary

5 is a private water resource structure located in Sanpete, Utah, that serves the primary purpose of irrigation. Built in 1883, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, with a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Utah Division of Water Rights, ensuring that it meets state standards for operation and safety.

Situated along Canal and Oak Creeks, Chester No. 5 plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection in May 2017 deemed it safe for continued use, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting areas for potential improvement in its overall risk preparedness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Chester No. 5 offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical development of irrigation infrastructure in Utah. As a vital component of the local water management system, this dam represents the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resource utilization. Understanding the regulatory oversight and maintenance practices associated with structures like Chester No. 5 can provide valuable insights into sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate dynamics and increasing water demand.

Year Completed

1883

River Or Stream

CANAL AND OAK CREEKS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

30.5

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.