Desert Meadows Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Desert Meadows Reservoir Dam, also known as Riddles Reservoir, is a gravity-type dam located in Harney, Oregon, on Indian Springs Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1913 by designer RIDDLE, this federal-owned structure serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 11 feet, the dam spans a length of 937 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet.
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam has a low hazard potential but an unsatisfactory condition assessment, indicating a need for maintenance and improvement. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to provide a vital water source for the surrounding area, supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam's controlled spillway and slide gate outlet contribute to its efficient water management system.
While Desert Meadows Reservoir Dam poses a low risk in terms of potential hazards, its current condition warrants attention to ensure its long-term effectiveness and safety. With its historical significance and continued importance for irrigation, efforts to maintain and enhance this essential water resource structure are crucial for sustainable water management in the region. As climate change impacts water availability, investing in the upkeep and modernization of infrastructure like Desert Meadows Reservoir Dam becomes increasingly critical for ensuring water security in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
937 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN SPRINGS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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BR8-User Created
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BR9-User Created
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LB1A-User Created
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South Steens Campground
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CS1-User Created
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LB1-User Created
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Desert Meadows Reservoir Dam
Mccoy Creek