Big Creek #1 (Lower)
Key Takeaway
Big Creek #1 (Lower) is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 33.9% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 315 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 272 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 550 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00225 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Newport
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Creek #1 (Lower)?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Creek #1 (Lower)?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) is owned by City of Newport (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Creek #1 (Lower) built?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Big Creek #1 (Lower)?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Creek #1 (Lower)?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) has a dam height of 21 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 Big Creek #1 (Lower) last inspected?
Big Creek #1 (Lower) was last inspected on June 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.