Big Rock Res. Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Big Rock Reservoir Dam, located in Lake County, Oregon, was completed in 1969 by the Bureau of Land Management and stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of its time.


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Summary

This gravity dam, made of buttress and stone, reaches a structural height of 27 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet, providing a storage capacity of 76.8 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its versatility and importance in managing water resources in the region.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Big Rock Reservoir Dam serves as a vital component of water management infrastructure in the area. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2017. The dam's emergency action plan status is unlisted, but its overall risk assessment and management measures are not specified, suggesting a need for further evaluation and planning in case of emergencies.

Despite its relatively modest size and capacity, Big Rock Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its picturesque location and historical significance, it stands as a symbol of human innovation in harnessing and controlling nature's most precious resource - water. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, dams like Big Rock become increasingly vital for ensuring a sustainable water supply for future generations of both humans and wildlife.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

375

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

44

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

76.8

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.