Piute Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Piute Reservoir, located in Lake County, Oregon, was completed in 1953 and serves as a vital water resource for irrigation purposes along Piute Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at 40 feet high and has a storage capacity of 1,250 acre-feet, with a surface area of 72.6 acres. The reservoir's normal storage level is at 1,051 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Piute Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While the reservoir does not have designated spillways or locks, it has a maximum discharge capacity of 798 cubic feet per second. With state-regulated inspection, permitting, and enforcement in place, Piute Reservoir remains a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, ensuring sustainable water supply for irrigation needs in the area.

Situated in a remote location with no downstream settlement, Piute Reservoir offers a serene oasis amidst the rugged Oregon landscape. The reservoir's efficient water management and oversight by state agencies, coupled with its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, make it a compelling study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of human intervention and natural systems in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

PIUTE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

72.6

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

35

Nid Storage

1250

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
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.