Starvation Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Starvation Canyon is a crucial water supply dam located in Blanding, Utah, along Johnson Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 60 feet, with a hydraulic height of 54 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 677 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 500 acre-feet. It serves as a primary source of water for the local government, highlighting its vital role in the region's water resource management.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Starvation Canyon Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2012 rated it as fair. With a history of regular inspections and maintenance, the dam continues to provide reliable water storage and flood control benefits to the surrounding area, making it a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

In the event of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and readiness remain unclear, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness measures. As a critical infrastructure within the Sacramento District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Starvation Canyon Dam plays a key role in water supply operations and risk management in the region. With its strategic location and impact on the local water supply, the dam serves as a focal point for conservation efforts and climate resilience initiatives in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

2065

River Or Stream

JOHNSON CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

54

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

677

Structural Height

60

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

60
       
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.