Walch Dam
Key Takeaway
Walch Dam is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 | 65 ft (taller than 89.2% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 1,070 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 55 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 691 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00246 |
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
Snattlerake Hills, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Walch Dam?
Walch Dam 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 Walch Dam?
Walch Dam is owned by Snattlerake Hills, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Walch Dam built?
Walch Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Walch Dam?
Walch Dam 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 Walch Dam?
Walch Dam 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 Walch Dam last inspected?
Walch Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.