Ettinger Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ettinger Pond, located in Orenco, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1954, this earthen dam structure stands at 16 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 7.8 acres and is fed by Gordon Creek, providing essential water supply for agricultural needs in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Ettinger Pond is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential, emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are crucial for mitigating risks associated with the dam. The outlet gates of the dam are designed as needle gates, allowing for controlled release of water during peak flow periods. Local authorities, including Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, oversee the regulatory compliance and enforcement measures for this vital water resource.

Water and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management and dam infrastructure will find Ettinger Pond to be a fascinating case study. With its historical significance, hydraulic design features, and regulatory framework, this pond serves as a critical lifeline for irrigation in the Washington County area. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, understanding the role of such water resources in supporting agricultural resilience and ecosystem health becomes increasingly essential.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

GORDON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.8

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.