Emigrant, also known as E-1, is a Federal-owned dam located in Ashland, Oregon. Built in 1960 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 204 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation. With a storage capacity of 46,700 acre-feet and a surface area of 806 acres, Emigrant plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of Emigrant Creek, Hyatt, and Howard Prairie Reservoirs.

With a hazard potential rated as high, Emigrant is a key infrastructure in the region for mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply for various purposes. The dam is associated with three other structures and is regulated, inspected, and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Emigrant is not available, and the last inspection was conducted in May 2020. As we continue to face challenges related to climate change and water resource management, the role of dams like Emigrant becomes even more critical in ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure.

Located in Jackson County, Oregon, Emigrant Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the past, providing essential services to the local community and beyond. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the need for effective water resource management and flood risk reduction measures becomes increasingly urgent. Emigrant serves as a vital piece of this puzzle, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.