Crowley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dowell Reservoir Hope Reservoir
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Crowley is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Malheur, Oregon, along Big Crowley Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this arch-type dam stands at a height of 90 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,700 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 48.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 420 cfs, Crowley plays a crucial role in water management and agricultural irrigation in the region.
Despite its historical significance, Crowley poses a high hazard potential and is currently rated as unsatisfactory in terms of condition assessment. The dam is subject to state regulation by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place. Its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently under review, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, the case of Crowley serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing critical infrastructure in the face of climate change. As water resources become increasingly strained and extreme weather events become more frequent, the maintenance and oversight of dams like Crowley are essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water supplies for both agricultural and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
BIG CROWLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
66 |
Hydraulic Height |
90 |
Drainage Area |
48.4 |
Nid Storage |
3700 |
Structural Height |
90 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
90 |
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.
Crowley