Summary
Built in 1919 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18.5 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, with a length of 1850 feet. It has a storage capacity of 7470 acre-feet, with normal storage levels at 3858 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 68 square miles.
Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Koosharem is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Its last inspection in November 2020 reported the dam's condition as fair, with a high hazard potential. Despite its age, Koosharem continues to provide essential irrigation water for the surrounding area. With its captivating history and ongoing role in water resource management, Koosharem remains a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Utah.
Overall, Koosharem stands as a testament to the resilience and importance of water infrastructure in sustaining agricultural activities and communities in arid regions. Its maintenance and regulation by state authorities ensure its continued safety and functionality, highlighting the crucial role of responsible water resource management in mitigating risks and meeting the needs of diverse stakeholders in the region.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
River Or Stream |
OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18.5 |
Drainage Area |
68 |
Nid Storage |
7470 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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