Chain Lake (Upper)

KREBS CREEK· Duchesne, Utah· Built 1921· Masonry·
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Chain Lake (Upper) is classified as significant hazard in Utah. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length178 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage630 acre-ft
Normal Storage520 acre-ft
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1921 (105 years old)
NID IDUT00308

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: August 25, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Utah Division of Water Rights

Ownership

DRY GULCH IRRIGATION COMPANY

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chain Lake (Upper)?

Chain Lake (Upper) 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 Chain Lake (Upper)?

Chain Lake (Upper) is owned by DRY GULCH IRRIGATION COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chain Lake (Upper) built?

Chain Lake (Upper) was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Chain Lake (Upper)?

Chain Lake (Upper) 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 Chain Lake (Upper) last inspected?

Chain Lake (Upper) was last inspected on August 25, 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.