Moose Creek Dam - East Cutoff Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Moose Creek Dam - East Cutoff Dike, located in Fairbanks North Star, Alaska, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1979.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 60 feet and a dam height of 40 feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding along the Chena River. With a storage capacity of 224,000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,496 square miles, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is equipped with a vertical lift outlet gate system and a spillway width of 2,000 feet to ensure proper water flow management during high flow events. The US Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in monitoring and maintaining the dam's structural integrity, regularly updating its emergency action plan and engaging with local emergency managers to enhance preparedness and response capabilities. As part of its risk management strategy, the USACE implements measures to mitigate potential flood risks associated with the dam, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and collaboration in safeguarding the community from dam-related emergencies.

In the face of evolving climate conditions and increasing water resource challenges, Moose Creek Dam - East Cutoff Dike stands as a testament to effective water resource management and proactive risk reduction strategies. The dedication of the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensuring the safety and resilience of the dam underscores the critical role of infrastructure in addressing climate-related threats and safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

40200

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

CHENA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

1496

Nid Storage

224000

Structural Height

60

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

60
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.