Bend Hydro (Mirrorpond) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bend Hydro (Mirrorpond) is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon.


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Summary

Built in 1905, the dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a capacity to store 100 acre-feet of water. With a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, the dam plays a significant role in the region's energy production.

The dam's structure is primarily built on rock foundations and spans 300 feet in length, with a surface area of 30 acres. It has a significant hazard potential and is classified as a moderate risk (3) according to risk assessments. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it is equipped with slide gates for water release. Regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement ensure the safety and compliance of Bend Hydro.

The location of Bend Hydro within the Deschutes River watershed allows for the sustainable harnessing of water resources for power generation. As a key player in the region's energy infrastructure, Bend Hydro (Mirrorpond) represents a harmonious blend of water resource utilization and climate-conscious energy production.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

DESCHUTES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1900

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.