Parsnip Creek Diversion

PARSNIP CREEK· Malheur, Oregon· Built 1980· Earth· 38 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Parsnip Creek Diversion is classified as significant hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 38 ft (taller than 74.5% in OR)
Dam Length900 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage475 acre-ft
Normal Storage475 acre-ft
Surface Area33 acres
Drainage Area10 sq mi
Max Discharge250 cfs
Year Completed1980 (46 years old)
NID IDOR00625

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: November 12, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OWRD

Ownership

JACA BROTHERS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Parsnip Creek Diversion?

Parsnip Creek Diversion 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 Parsnip Creek Diversion?

Parsnip Creek Diversion is owned by JACA BROTHERS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Parsnip Creek Diversion built?

Parsnip Creek Diversion was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Parsnip Creek Diversion?

Parsnip Creek Diversion 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 Parsnip Creek Diversion?

Parsnip Creek Diversion has a dam height of 38 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 Parsnip Creek Diversion last inspected?

Parsnip Creek Diversion was last inspected on November 12, 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.