Papoose Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Papoose Lake is a privately owned reservoir located in Duchesne, Utah, near the city of Whiterocks.


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Summary

Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated along the Whiterocks River, Papoose Lake has a low hazard potential and a structural height of 12 feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Papoose Lake undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a maximum discharge of 21 cubic feet per second, supporting efficient water management for the local community. Despite being not rated for its condition assessment, Papoose Lake remains a key component in the region's water infrastructure, contributing to agricultural and environmental sustainability.

With its strategic location and importance for irrigation, Papoose Lake plays a vital role in water resource management in Utah. The reservoir's association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlights its commitment to sustainable practices and regulatory compliance. As a low-hazard dam, Papoose Lake provides a reliable water source for agricultural activities, showcasing the significance of responsible water utilization in the context of climate change and resource conservation.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

220

River Or Stream

WHITEROCKS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.