Hemlock Meadows Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hemlock Meadows Dam, located in Douglas County, Oregon, stands as a vital structure along Hemlock Creek, serving multiple purposes since its completion in 1962.


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Summary

Managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 61 feet and has a storage capacity of 1150 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating due to its condition not being rated and the lack of updated emergency action plans.

The dam's primary purpose remains listed as "Other", with a spillway type of "Uncontrolled", raising concerns about its ability to manage potential overflow events effectively. The presence of uncontrolled spillways coupled with its location in a state-regulated area under the Oregon Water Resources Department adds complexity to its risk management measures. With a drainage area of 0.7 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 180 cubic feet per second, the dam's role in regulating water flow and storage in the region is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and mitigating flood risks.

Engagement with the Hemlock Meadows Dam not only highlights the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and regulatory oversight but also underscores the need for updated inspections, assessments, and emergency preparedness protocols to ensure the safety and sustainability of this critical infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

527

Dam Height

61

River Or Stream

HEMLOCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

77

Hydraulic Height

59

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

1150

Structural Height

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

62
       
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.