McKenzie Canyon Dam, also known as Squaw Creek I.D.
Wind
Humidity
Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Deschutes County, Oregon. Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes along Squaw Creek. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a surface area of 30 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, McKenzie Canyon Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential and a historic maximum discharge of 80 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped with slide (sluice gate) outlet gates for water release. Despite not having a formal condition assessment, the dam remains operational and continues to support the water needs of the surrounding area.
Located 75 miles from the city of Maupin, McKenzie Canyon Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the region. Its presence along Squaw Creek highlights the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems, showcasing the delicate balance needed to sustainably harness and utilize water resources in the face of a changing climate. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of water management and the critical role dams play in meeting the water demands of communities and ecosystems alike.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SQUAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Crooked River Blw Osborne Canyon
|
193cfs |
Deschutes River Near Culver
|
841cfs |
Crooked River Below Opal Springs
|
1230cfs |
Metolius River Near Grandview
|
1290cfs |
Mckenzie River At Outlet Of Clear Lake
|
212cfs |
Deschutes River Near Madras
|
4100cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sisters City Park
|
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Three Sisters Overnight City Park
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Steelhead Falls Campground
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Indian Ford
|
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Indian Ford Campground
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Sisters Cow Camp
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