District Reservoirs
The district currently owns and operates six reservoirs and has plans to construct more in the future. Combined, the existing reservoirs have the capacity to store in excess of 100,000 acre feet (nearly 33 billion gallons) of surface water. The primary function of the reservoirs is to supply potable and non-potable water for Washington County’s residents, but they offer countless recreational, environmental, financial and social benefits as well.
Sand Hollow Reservoir
- 51,360 acre feet storage capacity
- Off-stream reservoir
- Stores water from the Virgin River
- Completed in 2002
- Cost $37.3 million
Maximizing Groundwater Storage
Sand Hollow Reservoir is uniquely located on a natural Navajo sandstone aquifer with an underground storage capacity in excess of 300,000 acre feet. Approximately 4,500 to 11,000 acre feet seep into this underground storage area annually. In 2003, the 20,000-acre Sand Hollow State Park opened to the public and is one of the state’s most visited destinations, generating millions of dollars in state revenues annually. The park allows ample opportunities for a wide variety of aquatic recreation, including swimming, skiing, boating and fishing as well as scenic terrain for cyclists, off road vehicle riders and equestrians. Visit Utah State Parks or call 435.680.0715 for information on recreational opportunities.
Quail Creek Reservoir
- 40,325 acre feet storage capacity
- Off-stream reservoir
- Stores water from the Virgin River
- Completed in 1984
- Cost $23.5 million
First Regional Drinking Water Reservoir
Quail Creek Reservoir was the first storage project to provide regional potable water deliveries. One year after its completion, the reservoir opened to the public as a state park. It is a popular boating, camping and fishing area – generating millions in state revenues annually.
Visit Utah State Parks or call 435.879.2378 for information on recreational opportunities.
Gunlock Reservoir
- 10,884 acre foot capacity
- On-stream reservoir
- Stores water from the Santa Clara River, a tributary of the Virgin River
- Completed in 1970
Serving Agriculture Needs
Gunlock reservoir was developed by irrigation companies for agriculture needs and is still used today as a non-potable water source. The site remains one of Utah’s most quaint reservoirs and state parks, offering 549-acres of open space for boating, fishing and primitive camping opportunities.
Visit Utah State Parks or call 435.218.6544 for information on recreational opportunities.
Kolob Reservoir
- 5,586 acre foot capacity
- Off-stream reservoir
- Stores water collected in the Virgin River watershed
- Completed in 1956
Storing Water to Minimize Evaporative Losses
The district purchased the reservoir and adjacent land in 1995. The reservoir allows the district to store water in higher elevations during the summer months to minimize evaporative losses.
A recreational plan was developed in 1996 making the area a popular seasonal destination for boaters, fishers, campers, hikers, photographers and other outdoor recreational enthusiasts. Camping is permitted in reserved, designated campsites. Click here to reserve a camping site.
Ivins Reservoir
- 778 acre foot capacity
- Off-stream reservoir
- Stores water from the Santa Clara River, a tributary of the Virgin River
- Completed in 1918
Meeting Irrigation Needs
Ivins reservoir was built by the early pioneer settlers and is used primarily for irrigation. The reservoir is a scenic spot for boating, fishing and enjoying wildlife habitat. It stores water as part of the Santa Clara Project Agreement.
Chief Toquer Reservoir
- 3,725 acre foot capacity
- Off-stream reservoir
- Stores water from the Ash Creek System and reuse water
- Will be completed in 2027
- Cost $49.2 million
Preserving High-Quality Water
Chief Toquer Reservoir will provide an alternate water source for the Toquerville Secondary Water System (TSWS) and preserve the high-quality water from the Toquerville Springs for potable uses. The reservoir will collect water from the Ash Creek Reservoir as well as the Leap, South Ash and Wet Sandy creeks. In addition, the reservoir will store reuse water from the Confluence Park Water Reclamation Facility. The district is working with local and state partners on a recreational plan.
Warner Valley Reservoir (potential future)
Warner Valley Reservoir is a long-term water storage project currently being considered. Engineering, technical evaluations and design continue to be assessed as part of the district’s broader water supply master plan.
