Fred Scott Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Fred Scott Reservoir, located in Nyssa, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource primarily used for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The reservoir, completed in 1921, has a dam height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. Situated on Indian Ford Creek, the reservoir covers a surface area of 102 acres and has a drainage area of 34.5 square miles. With a maximum discharge rate of 960 cubic feet per second, the reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Despite its age, Fred Scott Reservoir has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to ensure its safe operation. While the reservoir has not been modified in recent years, it undergoes regular inspections every six years to assess its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. With its strategic location and reliable water supply, Fred Scott Reservoir continues to be a key asset in the irrigation infrastructure of Malheur County.

Managed by a private owner, Fred Scott Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of water resources in the arid landscape of eastern Oregon. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, reservoirs like Fred Scott play a vital role in sustaining agricultural productivity and community livelihoods. With its historical significance and ongoing operational oversight, Fred Scott Reservoir remains a valuable asset in the region's water management efforts, ensuring a reliable water supply for agricultural purposes while balancing environmental and regulatory considerations.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

INDIAN FORD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

102

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

34.5

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.