Big Lake

WATER CREEK CANYON· Sevier, Utah· Built 1979· Earth·
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Big Lake is classified as significant hazard in Utah. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length314 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.2K acre-ft
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Max Discharge34 cfs
Year Completed1979 (47 years old)
NID IDUT00036

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 14, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Utah Division of Water Rights

Ownership

GLENWOOD IRRIGATION COMPANY

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Lake?

Big Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Big Lake?

Big Lake is owned by GLENWOOD IRRIGATION COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Big Lake built?

Big Lake was completed in 1979, making it 47 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Big Lake?

Big Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Big Lake last inspected?

Big Lake was last inspected on July 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.