Smith Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith Reservoir, located in Bonanza, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource managed primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The reservoir, completed in 1970, has a dam height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 920 acre-feet. Fed by multiple rivers and streams including Dobe, Pine, L. Pine, and Rat Creek, Smith Reservoir covers a surface area of 99.4 acres and serves as a vital water source for agricultural activities in the Klamath County area.

Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Smith Reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. The reservoir's outlet gates consist of a slide (sluice gate) for water release, and it is situated within the San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The surrounding area, represented by Congressman Greg Walden, benefits from the reliable water supply provided by Smith Reservoir for irrigation needs.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the Klamath, Oregon region can appreciate the significance of Smith Reservoir as a vital component of the local water infrastructure. With its strategic location and capacity to store and release water for irrigation purposes, Smith Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring water security in the area. As climate change impacts water availability, reservoirs like Smith will be essential for managing and optimizing water resources for sustainable development and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1270

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

DOBE, PINE, L.PINE, RAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

99.4

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

920

Structural Height

22.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.