Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam in Uintah, Utah, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 220 feet and a structural height of 230 feet, with a length of 540 feet. It has a capacity of 3400 acre-feet and drains to Big Brushy Creek, making it a crucial component of the local water resource management system.

Despite being designated as "Significant" in terms of hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in November 2020. The dam is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Utah Division of Water Rights, ensuring its compliance with safety regulations. With its proximity to the tributaries of Big Brushy Creek, this dam plays a vital role in water storage and management for the surrounding area, making it of interest to water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in Uintah, Utah, the Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam represents a significant engineering achievement in water storage and management. Its design, construction, and regulation by state authorities underscore the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and security of water resources in the region. For those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience, the Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam serves as a noteworthy example of the critical role that dams play in maintaining water supply and mitigating environmental risk.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

540

River Or Stream

TRIB TO BIG BRUSHY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

220

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

3400

Structural Height

230

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

230
       
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.