Lester James Reservoir 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lester James Reservoir 3, also known as Lower Lester James Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Gold Hill, Oregon.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 60 cubic feet per second. The reservoir covers an area of 11.5 acres and is situated along an unnamed river or stream in Jackson County.

The dam stands at a height of 14 feet, with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 15 feet. It spans a length of 1190 feet and has an associated drainage area of 0.29 square miles. Although the hazard potential is deemed significant, the condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in September 2014. The outlet gates are of the needle type, and the dam is regulated and permitted by the Oregon Water Resources Department.

As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, Lester James Reservoir 3 plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and water resource management in the area. Its presence ensures a reliable water supply for irrigation needs while also contributing to the overall ecological balance of the surrounding environment. With its strategic location and design features, this reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

1190

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.5

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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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