Gardener Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gardener Reservoir, located in Lake Creek, Oregon, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 124 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 7.3 acres and is fed by the Long Branch and South Fork rivers, making it a vital resource for agricultural water supply in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Gardener Reservoir is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential due to its size and location, the reservoir is inspected every three years to monitor its condition and address any potential risks. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the reservoir plays a crucial role in the local water management system, providing essential irrigation water to support agricultural activities in Jackson County.

Overall, Gardener Reservoir serves as a critical water resource in Oregon, contributing to the sustainable use of water for agricultural purposes. Its strategic location, efficient design, and state-permitted operations make it a key component of the regional water infrastructure, supporting the irrigation needs of farmers and ensuring water availability for crop production. As climate change continues to impact water resources, reservoirs like Gardener play a vital role in securing water supply for a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

LONG BRANCH, SOUTH FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.3

Hydraulic Height

63

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

142

Structural Height

65

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

65
       
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.