Kens Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kens Lake, located in Moab, Utah, is a privately owned reservoir used primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1981, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 95 feet with a hydraulic height of 88 feet, providing a storage capacity of 3,360 acre-feet. Situated along Mill Creek, Kens Lake plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture in the region by storing water for irrigation needs.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Kens Lake is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition. With a drainage area of 3 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 135 cubic feet per second, Kens Lake serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Water and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water management and infrastructure will find Kens Lake to be a fascinating case study. From its construction history to its current operational status, this reservoir exemplifies the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in ensuring the sustainability of water resources in arid regions like Utah.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

4050

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

88

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

3360

Structural Height

95

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

95
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.