Badger Lake (Hood River) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Badger Lake in Hood River, Oregon is a picturesque reservoir managed by the local government for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1942, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 430 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 650 acre-feet of water from Badger Creek. The dam's primary purpose is to support agricultural activities in the region, with a normal storage level of 532 acre-feet and a surface area of 47 acres.

Located in Tygh Valley, the dam on Badger Lake is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The reservoir's spillway type and width are not specified, and it has not been modified in recent years, indicating a stable operational status.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Badger Lake serves as a vital water resource in the Hood River County, contributing to the local irrigation system and supporting agricultural activities. With its serene surroundings and essential role in water management, Badger Lake is a significant asset for the region's water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and monitor for sustainability and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BADGER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

47

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

650

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.