Wasatch County Lake Creek Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wasatch County Lake Creek Debris Basin, located in Heber, Utah, is a critical structure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction along the Lake Creek river or stream.


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Summary

Completed in 1987, this earth dam structure stands at a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a total length of 176 feet. With a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, it serves the purpose of mitigating potential hazards and reducing the risk of flooding in the area.

Managed and regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights, this debris basin has a drainage area of 39.5 square miles and can handle a maximum discharge of 45 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the structure is currently assessed to be in fair condition. Regular inspections are conducted every two years, with the last inspection date recorded in June 2019. While the debris basin meets state regulations and permitting requirements, there are no emergency action plans or risk assessment measures in place as of the latest data update in March 2021.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Wasatch County Lake Creek Debris Basin offers a fascinating example of local government efforts to manage flood risks and protect communities in the region. With its strategic location and design features, this structure plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation events. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the debris basin, ongoing monitoring and maintenance practices will be essential to uphold its critical role in flood risk reduction.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

176

River Or Stream

LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

39.5

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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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.