Walch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Walch Dam, also known as Indian Lake Reservoir, is a privately owned structure located in Shady Cove, Oregon.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and has a maximum storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet. Situated in a picturesque setting near Indian and Dyer Creeks, the dam stands at a height of 65 feet with a hydraulic height of 63 feet, making it a critical water resource for the surrounding area.

Despite its vital role in water management, Walch Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. Its last inspection in November 2021 raised concerns about its safety and highlighted the need for risk management measures to be implemented. With a surface area of 55 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles, the dam poses significant risks if not properly maintained and monitored.

Local authorities in Oregon, particularly the Oregon Water Resources Department, oversee the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of Walch Dam to ensure its compliance with state safety standards. With its strategic location and historical significance in irrigation, the dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

INDIAN & DYER CREEKS+BEAR GULC

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

63

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1300

Structural Height

67.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

68
       
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.