Summary
The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its overall condition.
Managed by a private owner, Withers Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam is situated in an area with no downstream settlements, making the risk of potential flooding minimal. The last inspection of the dam took place in August 2018, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 6 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Withers Dam presents an interesting case study of a historic earth dam that continues to play a vital role in supporting agricultural irrigation in the region. Despite its age, the dam's low hazard potential and regulatory oversight ensure its continued safe operation. The dam's location in a sparsely populated area highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure in rural settings to support local water resource management and agricultural practices.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
WITHERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Marster Spring
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Jones Crossing Forest Camp
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Campbell Lake
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Deadhorse Lake
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Lee Thomas
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Sandhill Crossing
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Withers Dam