Laird Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Laird Reservoir in Baker, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource built in 1950 primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The reservoir is situated along Sag Creek, with a dam height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. With a surface area of 13.95 acres and a drainage area of 5.35 square miles, Laird Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Laird Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in March 2015, with an inspection frequency of 6 years. While the reservoir does not have an emergency action plan in place and lacks inundation maps, it continues to serve as a vital water source for the local community. Despite its limited federal agency involvement, Laird Reservoir highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Located within the Walla Walla District, Laird Reservoir stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts required to ensure the safety and efficiency of water infrastructure. With its earth dam structure and significant storage capacity, the reservoir remains a key player in the irrigation network of the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the condition of Laird Reservoir is essential for promoting water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

SAG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.95

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

5.35

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.