Balm Creek Reservoir

BALM CREEK - BALM CREEK & UNION SP· Baker, Oregon· Built 1963· Earth· 65 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Balm Creek Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 65 ft (taller than 89.2% in OR)
Dam Length460 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage3.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.9K acre-ft
Surface Area112 acres
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Max Discharge400 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDOR00406

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 28, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OWRD

Ownership

HARRY H JACOBS & SONS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir is owned by HARRY H JACOBS & SONS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Balm Creek Reservoir built?

Balm Creek Reservoir was completed in 1963, making it 63 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir has a dam height of 65 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Balm Creek Reservoir last inspected?

Balm Creek Reservoir was last inspected on May 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.