Willow Creek 3 (Malheur) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pole Creek Lockett Reservoir
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Willow Creek 3 (Malheur) is a private earth dam located in Brogan, Oregon, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Completed in 1944, this dam stands at a height of 110 feet and has a storage capacity of 49,000 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 275 square miles and a maximum discharge of 17,000 cubic feet per second, Willow Creek 3 plays a crucial role in water management in the region.
Despite its important role in irrigation, Willow Creek 3 poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. The last inspection in October 2021 revealed the need for significant improvements to ensure the safety and efficacy of the dam. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as moderate, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of downstream communities and ecosystems.
As a vital water resource infrastructure in Malheur County, Oregon, Willow Creek 3 (Malheur) serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing and maintaining dams for agricultural and environmental purposes. With its location in a high-risk area and unsatisfactory condition, efforts must be directed towards addressing the identified issues and implementing appropriate risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
110 |
River Or Stream |
Willow Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
480 |
Hydraulic Height |
69 |
Drainage Area |
275 |
Nid Storage |
49000 |
Structural Height |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
110 |
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.
Willow Creek 3 (Malheur)