Parsnip Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Parsnip Creek Reservoir, located in Rome, Oregon, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir on Parsnip Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 25 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 181 acre-feet. With a surface area of 16.7 acres and a drainage area of 4.3 square miles, the reservoir serves as a vital water resource for agricultural irrigation in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Parsnip Creek Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment. The reservoir features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and has a maximum discharge capacity of 2000 cubic feet per second. Regular inspections are conducted every six years to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam.

With its picturesque location and essential role in supporting irrigation activities, Parsnip Creek Reservoir is a noteworthy water infrastructure project in Malheur County, Oregon. As a key component of the local water management system, this reservoir plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of agriculture in the area while also contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

264

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

PARSNIP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.7

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

4.3

Nid Storage

181

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.