Kern Brothers Dam (Harney) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Harney, Oregon, Kern Brothers Dam serves as a vital water resource for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a storage capacity of 2700 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Dry Krumbo Creek and covers a surface area of 107.6 acres, serving the surrounding agricultural community with a reliable water supply.

Managed by a private entity, Kern Brothers Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam provides essential water management for the region while maintaining safety standards. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Kern Brothers Dam remains a critical infrastructure for sustaining the local economy and environment.

The dam's strategic location and efficient design contribute to its functionality in providing irrigation water for the surrounding area. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Kern Brothers Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in Harney, Oregon. Its impact on the local community underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for agriculture and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

DRY KRUMBO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

107.6

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

13.87

Nid Storage

2700

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

54
       
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.