Oxbow Fuse Plug Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Oxbow Fuse Plug, also known simply as Oxbow, is a privately owned structure located in Oxbow, Oregon along the Snake River.


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Summary

This rockfill dam was completed in 1961 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, but also serves recreation purposes. Standing at a height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, the dam has a structural height of 37 feet and a length of 450 feet, holding a normal storage capacity of 58,386 acre-feet over a surface area of 1,150 acres.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Oxbow Fuse Plug is regulated at both the state and federal levels, with inspections conducted periodically to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential, but a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While condition assessment data is not currently available, emergency action plans are in place and regularly reviewed to meet guidelines and ensure preparedness for any potential risks or incidents.

Overall, the Oxbow Fuse Plug is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, providing both power generation and recreational opportunities along the Snake River. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Snake River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1150

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

73000

Nid Storage

58386

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
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.