Skull Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Skull Creek Reservoir, also known as Skull Creek Butte Dam, is a privately owned water storage facility located in Harney, Oregon.
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Summary
This reservoir primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with a dam height of 30 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 820 acre-feet. Completed in 1934, this earth dam sits on Big & Little Skull Creeks and covers a surface area of 81.7 acres, supporting a drainage area of 18 square miles.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that has not been rated, Skull Creek Reservoir is an essential water resource in the region. It is equipped with needle outlet gates and has a maximum discharge capacity of 160 cubic feet per second. While it is regulated by the state and subject to regular inspections and enforcement, its emergency action plan status is yet to be determined, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk assessment and management measures for this vital water infrastructure. The reservoir's scenic location and historical significance make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore in the heart of Oregon.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
135 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
BIG & SITTLE SKULL CREEKS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
81.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
100 |
Drainage Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
820 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
100 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Skull Creek Reservoir
Threemile Creek
Home Creek