Big Sand Wash East Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Sand Wash West
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sand Wash East is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Upalco, Utah.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 2006, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 44 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, with a length of 3000 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 16,900 acre-feet and primarily serves the purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Big Sand Wash East is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has been deemed safe for operation. The last inspection in September 2020 confirmed its structural integrity, and emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks.
Situated in Duchesne County, Utah, along the Big Sand Wash river, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its significant storage capacity and vital irrigation function, Big Sand Wash East remains an essential infrastructure for maintaining water security in the area while mitigating potential risks associated with high hazard potential.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
3000 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SAND WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
26.64 |
Nid Storage |
16900 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Big Sand Wash Dam