American Fork Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The American Fork Debris Basin, located in American Fork, Utah, is a vital structure owned by the local government to mitigate flood risk along the American Fork River.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, with a total length of 2400 feet. With a storage capacity of 236 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial flood risk reduction measure for the surrounding area.

Managed and regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights, the American Fork Debris Basin is an essential component of the state's infrastructure for ensuring water resource safety. Its significance is underscored by its state-regulated status, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place. The dam's location at 31,4S~2E SL in Utah County contributes to the protection of the community from potential hazards, making it a key asset in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.

Despite being rated as having a significant hazard potential, the American Fork Debris Basin has not been formally assessed for its condition. Nevertheless, its strategic design and purposeful construction underscore its importance in safeguarding the local area from flooding events. With a history of successful operation and maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction strategies in Utah's water resource management landscape.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

2400

River Or Stream

AMERICAN FORK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

64

Nid Storage

236

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.