Vernon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 5, 2026

Vernon is a private water resource located in Tooele, Utah, managed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights.


Summary

Built in 1973 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at an impressive height of 52 feet with a hydraulic height of 41 feet. With a storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet and a drainage area of 26 square miles, Vernon Creek serves as the primary water source for the surrounding area.

The dam, situated on Vernon Creek, plays a vital role in water management and agricultural activities in the region. With a significant hazard potential and a condition assessment not yet rated, Vernon is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a spillway width and number of locks that are not specified, indicating the need for further assessment and potentially additional infrastructure improvements to enhance its resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Vernon Dam remains a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, providing irrigation water to support agricultural activities in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of properly maintaining and regulating dams like Vernon becomes increasingly apparent to ensure sustainable water management for the future.



°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

885

River Or Stream

VERNON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

26

Nid Storage

1300

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.