Fern Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Abe Ediger Hendrickson
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Fern Creek is a private water resource in Polk County, Oregon, with a dam height of 21 feet and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet.
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Summary
Managed and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, this earth dam was completed in 2019 and serves as a significant water source in the region. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its hazard potential is deemed as "significant" based on the data.
Owned by a private entity and designed by Stuntzner Engineering and Forestry, Fern Creek showcases a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. With a normal storage capacity of 44.58 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.16 acres, this water resource plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. Regular inspections and state oversight ensure the dam's safety and functionality, highlighting its importance in sustainable water management practices in Oregon.
As a key feature in the Portland District, Fern Creek's water storage capabilities and regulated operation make it an essential asset in the region's water infrastructure. With a recent inspection in February 2020 and a hazard potential rating of "significant," this private dam reflects a proactive approach to water resource management and underscores the critical role such structures play in addressing climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
2019 |
Dam Height |
21 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.16 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Luckiamute River Near Suver
|
3790cfs |
Willamette River At Salem
|
35800cfs |
Santiam River At Jefferson
|
13800cfs |
Willamette River At Albany
|
13800cfs |
North Santiam River Near Jefferson
|
7220cfs |
Willamette River At Corvallis
|
14500cfs |
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.
Fern Creek
Luckiamute River