Marks Lake Dam, located in Prineville, Oregon, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1968 primarily for recreation purposes, this private-owned earth dam boasts a structural height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet. With a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 52 acre-feet, Marks Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Marks Creek, with a maximum discharge capacity of 425 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Marks Lake Dam remains a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing a surface area of 5 acres and serving a drainage area of 14.3 square miles. Regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2020, ensure the dam's integrity and safety. While the condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are under continuous review to meet evolving guidelines and address potential hazards.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Marks Lake Dam stands as a model of proactive management and adaptation. From its serene recreational setting to its functional water regulation capabilities, this earth dam embodies the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, Marks Lake Dam serves as a beacon of resilience and sustainability in the ongoing battle against climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
301 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MARKS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
14.3 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Bridge Cr Abv Coyote Canyon Nr Mitchell
|
10cfs |
Pine Creek Near Clarno
|
8cfs |
John Day River At Service Creek
|
1560cfs |
Crooked River Blw Osborne Canyon
|
191cfs |
Crooked River Below Opal Springs
|
1330cfs |
Deschutes River Near Culver
|
996cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ochoco Divide
|
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Ochoco Divide Campground
|
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Ochoco Divide Group Site
|
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Whistler Spring Campground
|
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Whistler Campground
|
||
Ochoco Ranger Rental House
|