Beede South Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Beede South, also known as South Dry Creek Dam, is a privately-owned irrigation structure located in Harney, Oregon.


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Summary

Built in 1916, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 2,078 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department.

With a significant hazard potential, Beede South has not been rated for its current condition. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 2,078 acre-feet and a drainage area of 18.4 square miles. It is inspected every three years, with the last inspection conducted in July 2018. Despite being privately owned, the dam is under state jurisdiction and subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Located in the Drewsey area, Beede South plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the region. It is part of the larger water resource management system in Oregon and contributes to the overall irrigation infrastructure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Beede South to be an interesting case study of a privately-owned irrigation dam in a state-regulated environment, showcasing the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and regulatory oversight.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

82

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

18.4

Nid Storage

2078

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.