Summary
Standing at 160 feet tall and with a volume of 403,000 cubic yards, the dam provides critical flood protection for downstream communities. Despite its high hazard potential, a 2017 risk assessment classified the life-safety risks as low, attributing this to the dam's sturdy construction and location in a low earthquake hazard area.
The dam's purpose also includes irrigation, recreation, and other functions, with a storage capacity of 14,091 acre-feet. USACE conducts routine inspections and monitoring, including new sensors to assess the dam's condition. In response to the risk assessment, updates to the Emergency Action Plan aim to enhance risk communication and public awareness. While the dam significantly reduces flood risks, USACE acknowledges that extreme weather events can still lead to flooding downstream, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures and community outreach to mitigate potential impacts.
Overall, Willow Creek Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood protection in the region, with USACE's commitment to ensuring its continued safety and effectiveness. By implementing regular inspections, monitoring, and communication strategies, the dam remains a key asset for managing flood risks while acknowledging the inherent uncertainties of natural events that may challenge its capabilities.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
1780 |
Dam Height |
159 |
River Or Stream |
WILLOW CREEK |
Surface Area |
269 |
Hydraulic Height |
158 |
Drainage Area |
96 |
Nid Storage |
14091 |
Structural Height |
160 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
160 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Willow Creek Dam