Ferron Debris Basin No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Emery County, Utah, Ferron Debris Basin No.
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Summary
3 is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1972 for flood risk reduction along ZWAHLEN WASH. Standing at a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 29 feet, this earth dam has a length of 3300 feet and a storage capacity of 525 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its functionality and safety.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Ferron Debris Basin No. 3 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. It is equipped with emergency contacts and has an inspection frequency of 5 years to guarantee its operational readiness. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets state permitting and inspection requirements, highlighting its importance in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ferron Debris Basin No. 3 remains a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Emery County. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall water resource management efforts in the area, ensuring the safety and well-being of nearby communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Ferron Debris Basin No. 3 play a crucial role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events on the local ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
3300 |
River Or Stream |
ZWAHLEN WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
525 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ferron Debris Basin No. 3