Griffin Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Griffin Creek Dam, located in Harney, Oregon, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes on Griffin Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 475 acre-feet. The dam spans 500 feet in length and covers a surface area of 26 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Griffin Creek Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to assess its condition and maintenance needs. While its emergency action plan status is not rated, the dam's design and construction aim to mitigate risks and protect downstream areas in case of a potential failure.
Overall, Griffin Creek Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. As an essential component of the local water supply network, the dam's operation and maintenance are critical for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
GRIFFIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
13.9 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
46 |
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.
Griffin Creek Dam
Middle Fork Malheur (Including Bluebucket Creek)