Shaw Dam And Dikes (Union) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wolf Creek Jimmy Creek Reservoir
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Shaw Dam and Dikes in Union, Oregon, stand as a crucial water resource infrastructure designed primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth-type dam has a height of 48 feet and a length of 430 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 504 acre-feet. The dam safeguards the surrounding area, including the Little, Dry, and Gussie Creeks, tributaries of the Powder River, ensuring a steady water supply for agricultural activities in the region.
The low-hazard Shaw Dam and Dikes are state-regulated and undergo regular inspections to ensure their structural integrity and functionality. Located in the city of Keating, Union County, Oregon, the dam's hydraulic height reaches 46 feet, and its maximum discharge capacity is 1140 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 55.3 acres and a drainage area of 2.4 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area.
Overall, Shaw Dam and Dikes serve as a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to irrigation activities and ensuring water availability for agricultural purposes. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service underline its importance in supporting the region's water resource management. The dam's consistent inspections and low-hazard potential further emphasize its role in maintaining water security and resource sustainability in Union County, Oregon.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE, DRY, & GUSSIE CREEKS,TRIB/POWDER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
504 |
Structural Height |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
51 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Shaw Dam And Dikes (Union)
Headwaters To Confluence With Van Patten Creek