Bolan Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bolan Lake Dam, located in Josephine County, Oregon, is a concrete gravity dam primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the Oregon State Game Commission, this Federal-owned structure on Bolan Creek stands at a height of 12 feet with a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet. The dam is managed and operated by the Forest Service and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam's design features a multi-arch core supported by rock and soil foundations, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 10 feet. The structure has not been rated for its condition but undergoes inspection every 10 years, with the last assessment conducted in May 2018. Despite its relatively small surface area of 50 acres and limited drainage area, Bolan Lake Dam serves as an important recreational spot in Cave Junction, Oregon, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and diverse wildlife supported by the pond.

With its focus on enhancing fish and wildlife habitat, Bolan Lake Dam serves as a valuable resource for both conservation and recreation in the region. As it continues to be managed by the Forest Service and monitored for safety and operational effectiveness, the dam remains a key feature in the local ecosystem, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

49

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

BOLAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

165

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.