Desert Lake - Wash Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Desert Lake - Wash Lake is a state-regulated water resource located in Emery, Utah.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this Earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 1200 feet. With a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, this reservoir plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, serving as a vital source for agricultural, recreational, and wildlife purposes.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Desert Lake - Wash Lake is inspected regularly with a low hazard potential rating. Although the condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," the dam remains structurally sound and essential for water management in the area. With a strategic location that drains into washes and feeder canals, this reservoir ensures a sustainable water supply for the surrounding communities while also supporting environmental conservation efforts.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the importance of Desert Lake - Wash Lake in maintaining water security and ecological balance in the region. With a history of effective management and state regulation, this reservoir stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard and optimize water resources for various stakeholders. As a key asset in Utah's water infrastructure, Desert Lake - Wash Lake serves as a model for sustainable water management practices in arid environments.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1200

River Or Stream

WASHES AND FEEDER CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.