Wasco
Key Takeaway
Wasco is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 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 | 45 ft (taller than 80.5% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 417 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 16.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 557 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00326 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wasco?
Wasco 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 Wasco?
Wasco is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wasco built?
Wasco was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Wasco?
Wasco 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 Wasco?
Wasco has a dam height of 45 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 Wasco last inspected?
Wasco was last inspected on June 17, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.