Horse Bench Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 1, 2026

Horse Bench is a federal-owned recreational dam located in Emery, Utah, with a primary purpose of providing recreational activities for enthusiasts.


Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1940, stands at a structural height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet, with a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 245 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights, ensuring that it meets state inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements.

Situated in an unnamed river or stream, Horse Bench offers a serene escape for visitors to enjoy water-related activities in a low-hazard environment. With its proximity to Sacramento District, the dam presents a unique opportunity for climate and water resource enthusiasts to explore the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental conservation. Despite its age, Horse Bench remains unassessed in terms of condition, but the Utah Division of Water Rights ensures that it is inspected regularly to maintain safety standards.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resource management and recreational infrastructure, Horse Bench provides a fascinating case study. With its historical significance, regulated status, and low hazard potential, this earth dam in Emery, Utah, offers a valuable opportunity for enthusiasts to delve into the complexities of maintaining and managing water resources in a recreational setting. Whether studying its construction in 1940 or investigating its storage capacity and inspection frequency, Horse Bench presents a compelling subject for further exploration in the realm of climate and water resource management.



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15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

170

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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