Little Dell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Dell is a crucial water supply dam located in Salt Lake City, Utah, along the Mountain Dell river.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 224 feet, with a hydraulic height of 209 feet, providing a storage capacity of 25,000 acre-feet. Owned and regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Little Dell plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the local community.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, Little Dell is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by state regulatory agencies. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, serving as a key source of water storage for the region. In case of emergencies, there are plans in place, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in the event of a breach or overflow.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little Dell represents a significant infrastructure project that highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices. As a key player in the water supply system of Salt Lake City, this dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in securing water resources for communities while also underscoring the need for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure safety and reliability.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

1700

River Or Stream

MOUNTAIN DELL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

209

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

25000

Structural Height

224

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

224
       
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.