Barnes Butte Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barnes Butte, located in Crook County, Oregon, is a significant earth dam built in 1956 primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 32.5 feet. It has a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural activities in the region. The dam is situated on a tributary to Ochoco Creek, serving as a vital resource for maintaining water levels in the area.

Despite its importance, Barnes Butte Dam is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in August 2021 revealed the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its long-term functionality and safety. The dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD), with state enforcement, permitting, and inspection in place to monitor its operations and address any concerns. In the event of an emergency, such as a breach or overflow, emergency action plans (EAP) need to be developed to mitigate risks and protect downstream communities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Barnes Butte become increasingly crucial. With its vital role in irrigation and water storage, ensuring the safety and resilience of the dam is essential for sustainable water management in the region. Collaboration between the private owner, state agencies, and stakeholders is necessary to address the dam's current condition, implement necessary improvements, and develop comprehensive emergency preparedness plans to safeguard against potential risks and hazards.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

405

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TRIB TO OCHOCO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34.6

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

420

Structural Height

32.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds