Oxbow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Oxbow is a privately owned dam located on the Snake River in Oxbow, Oregon.


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Summary

Built in 1961, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 204 feet and serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation. With a normal storage capacity of 58,386 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,150 acres, Oxbow Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Oxbow Dam is a key structure for both hydroelectric power and recreational activities. The dam, with a controlled spillway and three Tainter (radial) gates, also has a high hazard potential, leading to a very high risk assessment. Despite its importance, the condition assessment of the dam is currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community and environment.

With its strategic location and significant impact on the Snake River watershed, Oxbow Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As discussions around dam safety and modernization continue, the future of Oxbow Dam will be crucial in balancing the needs of energy production, water management, and environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

204

River Or Stream

Snake River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1150

Hydraulic Height

130

Drainage Area

73000

Nid Storage

58386

Structural Height

209

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

209
       
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.