Dickson Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dickson Reservoir, located in Ironside, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource managed by the D-11 state agency.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1949, serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.8 acres. Situated on High Horn Creek, the dam is an earth structure standing at 45 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 43 feet. The reservoir boasts a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.

Owned and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Dickson Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The facility is equipped with slide gates for outlet control and has a maximum discharge capacity of 254 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the reservoir has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years and is subject to regular inspections every six years. The surrounding area, within Malheur County, Oregon, relies on Dickson Reservoir for water supply and management, highlighting its importance in sustaining local ecosystems and economies.

In the event of emergencies, the reservoir's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently not specified. However, with its strategic location and operational efficiency, Dickson Reservoir stands as a vital water resource in the region, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability and climate resilience efforts. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of infrastructure like Dickson Reservoir is crucial for promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the long-term health of our ecosystems.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

HIGH HORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.8

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

2.25

Nid Storage

145

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

48
       
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.