John Day Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

The John Day Reservoir Dam, also known as Lake Phyllis, is a private-owned structure located in Ryndon, Nevada.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a structural height of 28 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 561 acre-feet and a surface area of 340 acres, it plays a vital role in providing water for irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreation in the region.

Situated on the John Day Creek, this dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of June 2021. With an uncontrolled spillway width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2140 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures proper water management in the area. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its integrity and functionality.

The John Day Reservoir Dam not only serves as a crucial water resource for the community but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the region. With its moderate risk assessment and adequate risk management measures in place, this dam plays a significant role in ensuring water availability for various purposes while also balancing environmental concerns and safety considerations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

JOHN DAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

340

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

28

Nid Storage

1962

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

28
       
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.