Gehring Reservoir (Towery Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Gehring Reservoir, also known as Towery Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Polk, Oregon, and built in 1959.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this Earth-type dam is irrigation, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.2 acres. Situated on the Willamette River tributary, this reservoir plays a vital role in supplying water for agricultural activities in the region.

With a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet, Gehring Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone recent inspections or assessments. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 29 cubic feet per second. It is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the Oregon Water Resources Department, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Gehring Reservoir an intriguing structure due to its historical significance, design features, and role in supporting local irrigation needs. The reservoir's location, construction details, and operational parameters make it a valuable asset in the management of water resources in the region. Further research and monitoring are essential to assess and mitigate any potential risks associated with this important water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

WILLAMETTE RIVER, TRIB TO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.69

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.