Binford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Binford Dam, located in Gresham, Oregon, stands as a crucial water resource infrastructure owned by the local government for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1958, this earth-type dam boasts a structural height of 25 feet and a length of 318 feet, providing a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet on the Hieny Creek. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Oregon Water Resources Department to ensure its safety and functionality.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Binford Dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to assess its integrity and performance. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are yet to be fully documented, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and preparedness to mitigate potential hazards.

With its proximity to Multnomah County and strategic location within the Portland District, Binford Dam serves as a key component in the local water management system. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and maintaining such critical infrastructure is essential for sustainable water supply and flood control in the area. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience can find inspiration in the operational challenges and regulatory framework surrounding Binford Dam, making it a focal point for ongoing discussions on water security and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

318

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

HIENY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.14

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.