Hicks Canyon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hicks Canyon Dam, located in Malheur, Oregon, is a gravity dam primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1979 by the Bureau of Land Management, this dam stands at a structural height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 17.2 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 2.2 acres, Hicks Canyon Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Situated on an unnamed stream that flows into Antelope Reservoir, Hicks Canyon Dam is regulated by the Bureau of Land Management and has been deemed to have a low hazard potential. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam has undergone inspections every 5 years, with the last one conducted in September 2018. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it serves as a vital infrastructure for maintaining water supply and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities in case of emergencies.

Overall, Hicks Canyon Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. As enthusiasts and advocates for water conservation, the data on this dam provides valuable insights into the infrastructure and operations that contribute to safeguarding water sources in Oregon. Its role in maintaining water supply, coupled with its low hazard potential and regular inspections, highlights the significance of proactive measures in ensuring the resilience of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

415

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TO ANTELOPE RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2.2

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

2.16

Nid Storage

17.2

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.