Lapham Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lapham Reservoir, located in Bly, Oregon, is a privately owned water storage facility primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1920, this earth dam stands at 16 feet high with a maximum storage capacity of 213 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 26 acres and is fed by Cold Spring Creek, a tributary of the Lost River, within a drainage area of 0.62 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lapham Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management in the region, providing a reliable source of water for agricultural activities. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second ensure proper water flow control and management during periods of high precipitation. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections take place every six years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

With its moderate risk assessment rating and a history dating back over a century, Lapham Reservoir serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water availability. As climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike continue to monitor and assess the reservoir's operations, its role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region remains vital for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

327

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

COLD SPRING CREEK, TRIB LOST RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.62

Nid Storage

213

Structural Height

16

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.