Alton Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alton Reservoir, located in Kane County, Utah, is a privately owned water resource managed by the Utah Division of Water Rights.


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Summary

This reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 41.8 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4.2 cubic feet per second. The dam type is earth, with a hydraulic height of 19.4 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, providing essential water storage for agricultural activities in the region.

Despite its crucial role in supporting local irrigation needs, Alton Reservoir has been flagged with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in October 2020 revealed concerning issues that may impact its long-term functionality and safety. With a history of modifications and a lack of detailed risk management measures in place, there are uncertainties surrounding the reservoir's ability to withstand potential emergencies or natural disasters.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the status of Alton Reservoir, there is a growing emphasis on the need for comprehensive risk assessments, emergency action plans, and maintenance efforts to ensure the continued reliability of this vital water storage facility. With its strategic location and importance to the surrounding agricultural community, proactive measures must be taken to address the identified risks and enhance the resilience of Alton Reservoir in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

850

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19.4

Nid Storage

41.8

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.