Salmon Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Salmon Creek, a private hydroelectric dam located in Juneau, Alaska, was designed by Lars Jorgensen and completed in 1914.


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Summary

This impressive structure stands at a height of 170 feet, with a hydraulic height of 140 feet and a structural height of 175 feet. The dam spans 648 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 18,000 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource for the area.

With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, the Salmon Creek dam also serves other purposes such as recreation and water supply. Its high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, adds to its significance in managing water flow and potential risks associated with high discharge levels.

Despite its age, Salmon Creek dam continues to play a vital role in the local water infrastructure, providing both power and water resources to the community. Its location on Salmon Creek in Gastineau Inlet makes it a key feature in the region's water management system, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with natural waterways in the beautiful landscape of Juneau, Alaska.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

648

Dam Height

170

River Or Stream

Salmon Creek, Gastineau Inlet

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

165

Hydraulic Height

140

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

18000

Structural Height

175

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

175
       
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.
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