Summary
This earth dam, standing at 165 feet in height, was completed in 1948 and has a storage capacity of 194,080 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 213 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of excess water during times of high discharge. Despite its age, Medicine Creek Dam is maintained and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but regular inspections and emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any risks associated with its operation.
As a critical infrastructure in the region, Medicine Creek serves as a key component in managing water resources and safeguarding the community from flooding. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential irrigation for agricultural activities in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and management efforts put into maintaining and operating Medicine Creek Dam to ensure its continued functionality and safety for years to come.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
5665 |
Dam Height |
165 |
River Or Stream |
MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5793 |
Hydraulic Height |
129 |
Drainage Area |
880 |
Nid Storage |
194080 |
Structural Height |
165 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
165 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Medicine Creek