Oriana Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Oriana Reservoir, located in Harney, Oregon, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1931, this gravity dam stands at 16 feet high and has a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 41.5 acres and is fed by Oriama and Red Mountain Creeks, with a maximum discharge capacity of 167 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Oriana Reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With its picturesque location and vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, Oriana Reservoir serves as a key water resource for the surrounding area. The dam's needle outlet gates allow for controlled water release, contributing to efficient water management practices. While the reservoir has not been rated for its current condition assessment, its historical significance and continued operation highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its longevity and functionality. As a part of the Sacramento District, Oriana Reservoir plays a crucial role in water supply management and conservation efforts in the region.

Overall, Oriana Reservoir stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resources management. Its presence not only supports local irrigation needs but also serves as a valuable asset for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the responsible stewardship of reservoirs like Oriana becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring sustainable water usage and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

66

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

ORIAMA & RED MOUNTAIN CREEKS

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

41.5

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

480

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.