Ferron Debris Basin No. 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ferron Debris Basin No.


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Summary

4, located in Emery, Utah, near the city of Ferron, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the DIVERSION HOLLOW stream. Completed in 1970, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a structural height of 29 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a length of 1290 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial asset in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential hazards.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Ferron Debris Basin No. 4 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a significant hazard potential, regular inspections are carried out every 3 years to assess its condition and ensure compliance with safety standards. While the structure's condition is currently not rated, its importance in flood control and risk management cannot be understated, highlighting its critical role in protecting the local community and environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the meticulous design and engineering behind this essential debris basin, showcasing the collaborative efforts of various agencies in safeguarding the region from potential water-related disasters.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1290

River Or Stream

DIVERSION HOLLOW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

29
       
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.