Chain Lake (Upper) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Chain Lake (Upper) is a privately-owned reservoir located in Duchesne, Utah, near the city of Whiterocks.


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Summary

Built in 1921, this masonry dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 630 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 520 acre-feet, making it a vital source of irrigation water for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Chain Lake (Upper) is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and proper functioning. With a significant hazard potential, the dam undergoes inspections every two years to assess its condition and address any potential risks. Despite not being rated for its condition, the reservoir serves as a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water supply reliability.

As an essential water source along Krebs Creek, Chain Lake (Upper) plays a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem and contributing to the overall water supply in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing water resources in the face of evolving climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Chain Lake (Upper) serves as a prime example of the intersection between infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in ensuring water security for future generations.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

178

River Or Stream

KREBS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

630

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.