Red Butte Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Red Butte Dam, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, along Red Butte Creek, was completed in 1930 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the Utah Division of Water Rights, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 118 feet and a structural height of 128 feet, with a storage capacity of 565 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for water supply purposes and is essential in managing the water resources in the area.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, Red Butte Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam has a history of meeting regulatory standards and has been designated as being under state jurisdiction and regulation. Although there are no associated structures with the dam, its presence plays a crucial role in maintaining the water supply for the surrounding community and protecting against potential floods or emergencies.

Red Butte Dam, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Salt Lake City, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. Its construction and operation demonstrate the efforts taken by local government authorities to safeguard water sources and ensure sustainable access to this precious resource. As a key player in the region's water infrastructure, Red Butte Dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human needs, environmental conservation, and climate adaptation in the face of changing conditions.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

435

River Or Stream

RED BUTTE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

118

Drainage Area

7.4

Nid Storage

565

Structural Height

128

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

128
       
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.