Mortimer Canyon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mortimer Canyon Dam, located in Harney, Oregon, was completed in 1951 for the primary purpose of irrigation on Mortimer Canyon Creek.


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Summary

This private dam stands at 30 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a length of 605 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 30.4 acres, serving the local agricultural community in the region.

Despite being privately owned, Mortimer Canyon Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated in terms of condition assessment. It is equipped with outlet gates, but details regarding spillway type and width are not provided. The dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and facilitating irrigation activities for the surrounding farmlands.

The Mortimer Canyon Dam, nestled in a remote location with no downstream settlement, serves as a vital water management structure in the region. While it may not attract much attention due to its low hazard potential, the dam plays a significant role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring the efficient utilization of water resources in Harney, Oregon. Enthusiasts interested in climate change and water resource management may find Mortimer Canyon Dam to be a fascinating example of how infrastructure can sustainably support human activities in harmony with the environment.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

605

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MORTIMER CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30.4

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

7.7

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.