Vane Ranch Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Love Reservoir (Malheur) Kivett 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Vane Ranch Reservoir, nestled in the picturesque Malheur County of Oregon, serves as a vital water source for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1950.
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Summary
This private reservoir, managed by the state regulatory agency OWRD, holds a capacity of 75 acre-feet and covers an expansive surface area of 3 acres. Situated along Birch Creek and owned privately, Vane Ranch Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, ensuring a steady water supply for crops and livestock.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of 'Not Rated', Vane Ranch Reservoir stands as a reliable structure for water storage and management. The dam, primarily an earth type standing at 32 feet, boasts a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 33 feet. Regular inspections, last conducted in May 2019, ensure the safety and functionality of the reservoir, with a mandated inspection frequency of 6 years. Despite its modest size and capacity, Vane Ranch Reservoir continues to play a significant role in sustaining the agricultural landscape of Homestead and surrounding areas in Malheur County.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and availability, the strategic location and efficient management of Vane Ranch Reservoir highlight its importance in ensuring a reliable water supply for irrigation needs in the region. Supported by the Portland District and state regulatory agencies, this reservoir stands as a testament to responsible water resource management, providing a lifeline for agricultural activities in the area. As water and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Vane Ranch Reservoir offers a glimpse into the intricate network of water infrastructure that sustains our ecosystems and livelihoods, emphasizing the need for continued stewardship and conservation efforts in the face of changing environmental dynamics.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
BIRCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River At Weiser Id
|
10700cfs |
Malheur River Below Nevada Dam Near Vale Or
|
109cfs |
Payette River Nr Payette Id
|
1970cfs |
Crane Creek At Mouth Nr Weiser Id
|
6cfs |
Weiser River Nr Weiser Id
|
365cfs |
Snake River At Nyssa Or
|
7810cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Oasis
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Catfish Junction RV Park
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Steck Park
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Spring
|
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Spring Recreation Site
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Vane Ranch Reservoir