The Moab City Johnson Canyon Retention Dam, located in Grand County, Utah, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Johnson Canyon (Dry Wash) river or stream. Managed by the local government of Moab, this masonry-type dam is regulated and permitted by the Utah Division of Water Rights, ensuring its compliance with state standards for inspection, enforcement, and safety measures. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, with the last inspection conducted in May 2004.

With a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a distance of 0.1 miles from Moab city, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. While specific details such as dam height, volume, and storage capacity are unavailable, the dam's primary purpose of flood risk reduction underscores its importance in safeguarding residential and commercial properties in the area. As part of its emergency preparedness protocols, the dam may have an emergency action plan in place, although details on its implementation and adherence to guidelines are currently unspecified.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Moab City Johnson Canyon Retention Dam presents an intriguing case study in local flood management and infrastructure resilience. Its location in a dry wash area highlights the importance of strategic flood control measures in arid regions susceptible to flash floods. While further information on the dam's specifications and maintenance history would enhance our understanding of its effectiveness, the dam's role in mitigating flood risks for Moab residents underscores the critical intersection of water resource management and community safety in the face of changing climate patterns.