Ruckmans Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Howell Fleets Loop
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ruckmans Reservoir, located in Imbler, Oregon, along the Grande Ronde River, is a privately owned water resource essential for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this earth dam structure stands at 20 feet high with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, serving as a vital water source for agricultural activities in the region. With a surface area of 15 acres and a maximum discharge rate of 32 cubic feet per second, the reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining the local farming community.
Despite its low hazard potential, Ruckmans Reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, ensuring that the dam meets necessary safety standards. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in October 2012, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 6 years. The reservoir's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently not rated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and management to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainability of this vital water resource in Union County.
With its strategic location and importance for irrigation, Ruckmans Reservoir serves as a key asset for water management in the region. As climate change impacts water resources, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and regulation of such reservoirs to ensure their long-term viability and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
GRANDE RONDE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Minam River Near Minam
|
340cfs |
Meacham Creek At Gibbon
|
444cfs |
Umatilla River Above Meacham Creek
|
266cfs |
Mill Creek Near Walla Walla
|
102cfs |
Umatilla R At W Reservation Bndy Nr Pendleton
|
573cfs |
Grande Ronde River At Troy
|
3000cfs |
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.
Ruckmans Reservoir