Wellington City Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wellington City Debris Basin, located in Carbon County, Utah, was completed in 2010 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Designed by Johansen & Tuttle Engineering Inc., this structure stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, with a total dam length of 515 feet. The basin has a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, serving as a crucial line of defense against potential flooding events in the area.

Managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights, the Wellington City Debris Basin is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its functionality and safety. With a hazard potential rated as significant, the basin is inspected every three years to assess its condition and readiness for emergency situations. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the basin plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding community from the risks associated with flooding, highlighting its importance as a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As a local government-owned structure, the Wellington City Debris Basin operates under the oversight of the Utah state regulatory agency, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. With state permitting and enforcement in place, this debris basin serves as a key component in the overall flood risk reduction strategy for the area. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall resilience of the community in facing potential water-related challenges, making it an essential asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Year Completed

2010

Dam Length

515

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.