North Canal Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The North Canal Diversion, also known as the Steidl Dam, is a vital structure in Deschutes, Oregon, that plays a crucial role in both hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1906, this concrete dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated on the Deschutes River, the North Canal Diversion serves as a key water management tool for the region, with a maximum discharge capability of 10,000 cubic feet per second.

Maintained by the Oregon Water Resources Department, the North Canal Diversion has been deemed to have a high hazard potential, although its current condition is assessed as fair. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one taking place in October 2020. The dam is equipped with needle outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway, ensuring effective water release mechanisms. Despite being over a century old, the North Canal Diversion continues to be a vital component of water resource management in the area, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures.

With its strategic location and significant impact on the surrounding area, the North Canal Diversion stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water infrastructure in supporting both energy production and agricultural activities. As a public utility structure owned by the state, this dam plays a critical role in regulating water flow on the Deschutes River and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the North Canal Diversion remains a key asset in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a changing environment.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

DESCHUTES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1900

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.