Wasco Reservoir Report
Nearby: Trillium Lake Timothy Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wasco, also known as W-47, is a federal-owned irrigation dam located in Tygh Valley, Oregon, along the Clear Creek river.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam stands at 45 feet high and serves as a crucial water resource for the region. With a maximum storage capacity of 16,360 acre-feet and a normal storage of 11,869 acre-feet, Wasco plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the area.
The dam has a high hazard potential and underwent structural modifications in 2000 to ensure its safety and functionality. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation help maintain the dam's integrity. The emergency action plan (EAP) for Wasco was last revised in 2020, demonstrating a commitment to preparedness and risk management. Despite its age, Wasco continues to be a key component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential irrigation water to the surrounding community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be captivated by the engineering feat of Wasco and its role in sustaining agriculture in the region. The collaboration between federal agencies and the local community to ensure the safety and reliability of the dam is a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change. As climate variability continues to pose challenges to water availability, dams like Wasco play a crucial role in managing and distributing water resources effectively.
Years Modified |
2000 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
417 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
557 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
16360 |
Structural Height |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
59 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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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