North Fork Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The North Fork Diversion Dam, located on the North Fork Rogue River in Oregon, was completed in 1928 and stands at a height of 45 feet with a structural height of 55 feet.


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Summary

This concrete dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes, with a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 250 acre-feet. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 112 feet and can discharge up to 27,325 cubic feet per second.

Owned privately, the North Fork Diversion Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which also conducts inspections on the dam. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, the dam presents significant challenges in terms of safety and risk management. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as not available, raising concerns about its maintenance and upkeep.

The North Fork Diversion Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its engineering features and risk profile, make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

384

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

North Fork Rogue R(offstream)

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

312

Nid Storage

450

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

55
       
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.