Deer Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Creek, located in Wasatch, Utah, is a federal-owned water resource managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1941, serves primarily for irrigation purposes with a storage capacity of 161,070 acre-feet. It is situated along the Provo River, approximately 14 miles from Provo, Utah. The dam stands at 235 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 155 feet, making it a significant structure in the region.

With a surface area of 2,683 acres and a drainage area of 597 square miles, Deer Creek plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the area. The reservoir also boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 45 feet, ensuring safe water release during peak flows. However, with a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, continuous monitoring and maintenance are imperative to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam and surrounding communities.

The Bureau of Reclamation oversees the operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects of Deer Creek, emphasizing the importance of emergency preparedness and risk management. Despite its age, the dam has undergone modifications in 2006 to enhance its foundation and seismic resilience. Deer Creek stands as a vital water resource in Utah, highlighting the intricate balance between water supply, irrigation needs, and environmental considerations in the region.

Years Modified

2006 - Foundation, 2006 - Seismic

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

1304

River Or Stream

PROVO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2683

Hydraulic Height

155

Drainage Area

597

Nid Storage

161070

Structural Height

235

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

235
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.