Moab City - Tusher Canyon Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moab City's Tusher Canyon Detention is a vital flood risk reduction structure in Grand County, Utah, completed in 1969.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, with a capacity to store up to 15 acre-feet of water from the Tusher Canyon stream. Its primary purpose is to protect the surrounding area from flooding, making it a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Located in the picturesque city of Moab, this dam is regulated and inspected by the Utah Division of Water Rights, ensuring its safety and effectiveness. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, the Tusher Canyon Detention serves as a beacon of flood control infrastructure in a vulnerable area. Its strategic location and design make it a key player in mitigating the risks associated with extreme weather events, highlighting the importance of proactive water management in the face of climate change challenges.

As part of the Sacramento District, the Moab City - Tusher Canyon Detention is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to safeguard communities against flooding events. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this structure stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving climate patterns, making it a must-visit site for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

TUSHER CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

15

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.