Mercer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mercer is a vital water supply dam located in Dallas, Oregon, along the Rickreall Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at 81 feet high and spans 460 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1550 acre-feet. Despite its critical role in providing water to the region, Mercer has been flagged for its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, requiring frequent inspections due to safety concerns.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Mercer serves as a key source of water for the community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 8700 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 17.8 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. However, its deteriorating condition and high hazard potential highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and reliability of the dam.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Mercer becomes increasingly crucial. With its strategic location in Polk County, Oregon, Mercer serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water supply management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support initiatives that promote sustainable water management practices and strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure like Mercer for the benefit of future generations.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

79

River Or Stream

Rickreall Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

51

Hydraulic Height

77

Drainage Area

17.8

Nid Storage

1550

Structural Height

81

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

81
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.