Desert Lake - Fawn Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Desert Lake - Fawn Lake is a state-regulated water resource located in Emery, Utah, with a dam height of 9 feet and a hydraulic height of 4 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam spans 1355 feet and has a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for water management purposes, with the Utah Division of Water Rights overseeing its regulation, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential, Desert Lake - Fawn Lake plays a crucial role in the local water supply and ecosystem. The dam's last inspection in April 2019 deemed its condition as "Not Rated," highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The surrounding area drains into washes and feeder canals, emphasizing the interconnectedness of this water resource with the broader landscape.

With its strategic location and vital role in water management, Desert Lake - Fawn Lake serves as a valuable asset for the community and wildlife in Emery, Utah. The dam's presence supports various ecological functions and provides a reliable water source for both human and environmental needs. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and sustainable management of Desert Lake - Fawn Lake will be essential for maintaining a resilient and healthy ecosystem in the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1355

River Or Stream

WASHES AND FEEDER CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

4

Nid Storage

248

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.