Buffalo Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Poison Creek Dam Pons Lake Reservoir
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Buffalo Lake Dam, located in Burns, Oregon, plays a vital role in the irrigation infrastructure of the area.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation. Situated on Hall Creek, the dam has a drainage area of 4.05 square miles and a surface area of 48 acres, providing essential water resources to the surrounding agricultural lands.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Buffalo Lake Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's last inspection took place in October 2016, with a frequency of every 6 years. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and management to safeguard the local community and environment from potential risks associated with the dam.
Managed by a private owner, Buffalo Lake Dam contributes significantly to the water management system in Grant County, Oregon. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and regulation of such dams become increasingly important in ensuring water security and sustainability for the region. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Buffalo Lake Dam stands as a testament to the crucial role of water infrastructure in supporting agricultural activities and fostering resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1261 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
HALL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
4.05 |
Nid Storage |
280 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rock Springs
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Rock Springs Campground
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Joaquin Miller Horse Camp
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Buffalo Lake Dam