Miller Reservoir (Harney) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Griffin Creek Dam Vanderveer Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Miller Reservoir in Harney, Oregon, is a privately-owned structure utilized for irrigation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet and has a storage capacity of 362 acre-feet. Situated on Gould Creek, the reservoir covers a surface area of 36 acres and serves a drainage area of 3.3 square miles. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its current condition as of the last inspection in April 2015.
Located in the city of Drewsey, Miller Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region. Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its integrity and safety. The reservoir's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps are currently not documented, suggesting potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness.
With its historical significance and importance for local water resource management, Miller Reservoir stands as a testament to the vital role of dams in sustaining agricultural practices in the Harney County area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource specialists can appreciate the reservoir's design, construction, and operational features as a key component of the region's irrigation infrastructure. As efforts continue to enhance dam safety and emergency response protocols, Miller Reservoir remains a valuable asset for ensuring water supply reliability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
GOULD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
3.3 |
Nid Storage |
362 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
48 |
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.
Miller Reservoir (Harney)
Middle Fork Malheur (Including Bluebucket Creek)