Cliff Lake (Summit) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Cliff Lake in Summit County, Utah, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in the beautiful surroundings of Oakley.


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Summary

With a capacity of 293 acre-feet, this earth dam structure on the Weber River has been serving its primary purpose since its completion in 1932. The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, ensuring vital water resources for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Cliff Lake has a significant hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2020. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the reservoir remains crucial for water storage and distribution in the area. Its construction and operation align with state regulations, ensuring its safety and functionality in times of need. With its rich history and strategic location, Cliff Lake continues to be a key player in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cliff Lake presents a fascinating study in the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems. As a vital irrigation source in Summit County, this reservoir highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring agricultural productivity and environmental conservation. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Cliff Lake serves as a prime example of how infrastructure can support the local community while respecting the surrounding natural resources.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

462

River Or Stream

WEBER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

10.3

Nid Storage

293

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.