Rock Creek Lake (Wheeler) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Rock Creek Lake (Wheeler) in Oregon is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This Earth dam, completed in 1954, stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 2,600 acre-feet. Situated on the Rock Creek-West Fork, this dam plays a crucial role in water management in Wheeler County, Oregon, with a surface area of 85.84 acres and a drainage area of 4.8 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Rock Creek Lake is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and has a maximum discharge capacity of 518 cubic feet per second. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in May 2013, with an inspection frequency of 6 years, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its integrity and safety.

Rock Creek Lake (Wheeler) not only provides essential irrigation water but also serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community. With its serene location in Antone, Oregon, this dam contributes to water conservation and management efforts in the region. Its history, design, and regulatory oversight make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

710

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

ROCK CREEK - WEST FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

85.84

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

4.8

Nid Storage

2600

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

48
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.