Chepeta Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chepeta Lake, located in Duchesne, Utah, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights.


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Summary

Built in 1944 for irrigation purposes, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 42 feet, with a hydraulic height of 35 feet and a total length of 1670 feet. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 2910 acre-feet and serves as a crucial water source for the surrounding area, drawing from the Whiterocks River.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Chepeta Lake is subject to regular inspections by state regulatory agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam poses a risk of inundation, prompting the need for emergency action plans (EAP) to be prepared and updated as necessary. The last inspection took place in June 2020, with a frequency of 1 year for assessments. While the risk management measures and guidelines for EAPs are not specified in the data, the dam's critical role in irrigation highlights the importance of maintaining its integrity for water supply and climate resilience.

Despite its private ownership, Chepeta Lake plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and water management in the region. With its strategic location on the Whiterocks River and a history dating back to the mid-20th century, this reservoir stands as a testament to the ingenuity and necessity of water infrastructure in sustaining communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance and maintenance of structures like Chepeta Lake is essential for safeguarding our water supply and adapting to changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

1670

River Or Stream

WHITEROCKS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

2910

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.