Sams Valley
Key Takeaway
Sams Valley is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 60 ft (taller than 87.8% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 890 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 50 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00400 |
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
SAMS VALLEY IRRIGATION ASSOC.
Local Government
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sams Valley?
Sams Valley 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 Sams Valley?
Sams Valley is owned by SAMS VALLEY IRRIGATION ASSOC. (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sams Valley built?
Sams Valley was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Sams Valley?
Sams Valley 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 Sams Valley?
Sams Valley has a dam height of 60 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 Sams Valley last inspected?
Sams Valley was last inspected on October 15, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.