Twin Lakes (Salt Lake) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Twin Lakes (Salt Lake) is a vital water supply structure located in Brighton, Utah.


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Summary

Constructed in 1914, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 62 feet and has a hydraulic height of 59 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 575 acre-feet and a normal storage of 486 acre-feet, Twin Lakes plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated within the drainage area of a tributary to Big Cottonwood Creek, Twin Lakes serves as a key component in the water supply infrastructure of Salt Lake County. The dam has a high hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition, with a last inspection date in August 2020. With a primary purpose of water supply, Twin Lakes plays a critical role in meeting the water needs of the local community and ensuring a reliable source of water for various uses. As a locally owned and regulated structure, it is subject to state jurisdiction and enforcement to maintain its integrity and functionality.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Twin Lakes (Salt Lake) in the water supply system of Utah. This gravity dam, completed over a century ago, continues to provide essential water storage and regulation for the area. With a focus on water supply, Twin Lakes stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices and the role of local government in ensuring the availability of water resources for the community. As a regulated and inspected structure, Twin Lakes exemplifies the dedication to maintaining the safety and reliability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

680

River Or Stream

TRIB. TO BIG COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

59

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

575

Structural Height

62

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

62
       
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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.