Star Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Star Lake, located in Jackson, Oregon, serves as a vital water resource for irrigation purposes in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this private earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet. The dam spans 800 feet in length and covers a surface area of 15.8 acres, with a drainage area of 0.84 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment of level 3.

The lake is situated along Lick Creek and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled, Star Lake has a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cfs. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam undergoes regular inspections every 6 years to monitor its safety and functionality. While the emergency action plan status and risk management measures for the dam are unspecified, the overall risk assessment remains at a moderate level.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Star Lake plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities in the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Star Lake are essential to mitigating risks and ensuring a reliable water supply for the community. This serene body of water, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Brownsboro, serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems in managing water resources for the future.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.8

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

0.84

Nid Storage

290

Structural Height

56

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

56
       
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.