Cottonwood Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cottonwood is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Gusher, Uintah County, Utah.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1982, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 76 feet and has a hydraulic height of 72 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 6,269 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 7,200 acre-feet, Cottonwood serves as a vital water resource for agricultural purposes in the region.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Cottonwood is subject to regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a high hazard potential and is classified in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2009. Despite its age, Cottonwood continues to play a crucial role in water management, especially in times of drought or changing climate patterns affecting the flow of the tributary to the Uinta River.

Cottonwood's significance lies in its contribution to sustaining irrigation activities in the area, supporting local agricultural practices and livelihoods. As water resources and climate conditions become increasingly important topics of discussion, understanding the role of structures like Cottonwood in managing water supply and mitigating risks is essential for enthusiasts and stakeholders in the field.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

3252

River Or Stream

TRIB. TO UINTA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

72

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

7200

Structural Height

76

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

76
       
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.