Big Creek #1 (Lower) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Big Creek #1 (Lower) is a vital water supply dam located in Lincoln, Oregon, near the city of Newport.


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Summary

Constructed in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, ensuring its proper operation, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its importance for water resource management, Big Creek #1 (Lower) is currently classified as having a high hazard potential with an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of June 2021. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are areas that may need further attention to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide outlet gate for water release, with a maximum discharge capacity of 550 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Creek #1 (Lower) presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its location in a scenic area with a drainage area of 2.8 square miles, the dam's risk management measures and potential upgrades could be of interest to those passionate about sustainable water management practices and the impact of aging infrastructure on local ecosystems.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

2.8

Nid Storage

272

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.