Silver Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Silver Creek is a crucial water supply source located in Marion, Oregon, just outside of the city of Silverton.


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Summary

Built in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1300 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, providing water to the surrounding area for various uses.

With a drainage area of 45.6 square miles and a maximum discharge of 16000 cubic feet per second, Silver Creek Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in September 2020. The dam features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway type.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Silver Creek Dam is a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. Its strategic location, design features, and storage capacity contribute to the overall water management efforts in the area, making it a significant asset for ensuring water security and sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

SILVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

45.6

Nid Storage

2500

Structural Height

65

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.