Browns Draw Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Browns Draw, located in Duchesne County, Utah, is a privately owned irrigation dam that was completed in 1981.


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Summary

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 81 feet and has a structural height of 89 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 7700 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 5901 acre-feet, Browns Draw serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and undergoes regular inspections by the state regulatory agency. The dam is situated on a tributary to Cottonwood Creek, providing water for irrigation purposes in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 130 cubic feet per second, Browns Draw plays a vital role in managing water resources and ensuring agricultural needs are met in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and maintenance of dams like Browns Draw is essential to safeguarding water security and mitigating risks associated with potential hazards. By staying informed about the regulatory oversight, inspection schedules, and emergency preparedness measures in place for dams such as Browns Draw, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the region and promote resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

3335

River Or Stream

TRIB TO COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

81

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

7700

Structural Height

89

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

89
       
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.