Tarheel Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tarheel, located in Coos, Oregon, is a significant Earth dam constructed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 1924, with a structural height of 16 feet and a length of 320 feet.


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Summary

This dam on Tarheel Creek serves as a vital water resource, providing a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet for the surrounding area. The dam's spillway, a controlled type, ensures proper water management and safety measures.

With a hazard potential rated as significant and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, Tarheel is closely monitored by the Bureau of Indian Affairs for any potential safety concerns. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are crucial in mitigating potential risks. The dam's location and design make it a key feature in water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tarheel offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and risk management. With its historical significance and ongoing importance in water regulation and safety, Tarheel stands as a testament to the careful balance required in maintaining vital water resources while minimizing potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water systems, the monitoring and management of dams like Tarheel are essential in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

TARHEEL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.
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