Lower Fire Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Lower Fire Lake Dam, located in Eagle River, Alaska, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam with a height of 13 feet and a length of 460 feet primarily functions as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, promoting recreational activities while also supporting the local ecosystem. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 273 cubic feet per second, ensuring a steady water supply for the region.

Despite its importance, Lower Fire Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its condition being assessed as fair. The dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, highlighting the commitment to ensuring its safety and functionality. In 2007, hydraulic modifications were made to enhance the dam's performance, further demonstrating a proactive approach to risk management and mitigation.

With its strategic location on Fire Creek and its critical role in water management, Lower Fire Lake Dam stands as a significant infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts continue to maintain and improve its condition, the dam remains a cornerstone for fostering biodiversity, recreation, and water sustainability in the Anchorage area.

Years Modified

2007 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

FIRE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Drainage Area

3.4

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.