Balm Creek Reservoir, located in Baker, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource that serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1963, this Earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,550 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2,926 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 112 acres and is fed by Balm Creek and Union Sp, providing water to the surrounding agricultural lands.
With a drainage area of 5.36 square miles, Balm Creek Reservoir has a significant hazard potential and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department. The reservoir's spillway type and width are not specified, but it has an outlet gate in the form of a slide (sluice gate) to control water flow. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last inspection reported in May 2020, maintaining its operational safety and integrity. The reservoir's location, design, and purpose make it a vital water source for maintaining agricultural productivity in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Balm Creek Reservoir offers a glimpse into the intricate infrastructure that supports irrigation in the region. Its historical significance, structural details, and operational characteristics highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices. As a key contributor to the local economy, this reservoir plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for agricultural activities while also emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to address potential risks and ensure the safety of its surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
BALM CREEK - BALM CREEK & UNION SP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
112 |
Hydraulic Height |
63 |
Drainage Area |
5.36 |
Nid Storage |
3550 |
Structural Height |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
68 |
Snake River At Hells Canyon Dam Id-Or State Line
|
19200cfs |
Minam River Near Minam
|
340cfs |
Weiser River Nr Cambridge Id
|
208cfs |
Imnaha River At Imnaha
|
150cfs |
Snake River At Weiser Id
|
10700cfs |
Crane Creek At Mouth Nr Weiser Id
|
6cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Two Color
|
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Two Color Campground
|
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Two Color Guard Station
|
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West Eagle Meadow Campground
|
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West Eagle
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