Big Sand Wash West Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Sand Wash East
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sand Wash West is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Upalco, Duchesne County, Utah.
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Summary
Completed in 2006, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 55 feet and serves the primary purpose of providing water for irrigation. With a maximum storage capacity of 19,600 acre-feet and a normal storage of 18,800 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, Big Sand Wash West has a high hazard potential but is currently rated as being in satisfactory condition. The dam spans 2,950 feet in length and is situated on the Big Sand Wash River, covering a drainage area of 26.64 square miles. Despite its remote location, the dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of downstream communities.
With its significant storage capacity and vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the area, Big Sand Wash West serves as a critical water resource infrastructure in Utah. As a regulated and inspected dam, it highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
2950 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SAND WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
26.64 |
Nid Storage |
19600 |
Structural Height |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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