Oxbow Dam (Klamath) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oxbow Dam, located in Klamath, Oregon, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, providing a storage capacity of 309 acre-feet. The dam spans 2650 feet and covers a surface area of 27.84 acres, serving the local agricultural community by regulating water flow from Barnes Creek, a tributary to the Klamath River.

While Oxbow Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been officially rated for its condition, it is subject to regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. The dam features slide gates for outlet control and has a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Oxbow Dam continues to play a vital role in water management in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for sustainable water resource utilization in the face of changing climate conditions.

With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting local agriculture, Oxbow Dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate, and human activities. As climate enthusiasts and water resource experts continue to study and address the challenges posed by a changing environment, structures like Oxbow Dam underscore the importance of responsible water management practices to ensure a secure and sustainable future for both ecosystems and communities that rely on these vital resources.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

2650

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BARNES CREEK, TRIB TO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.84

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

1.24

Nid Storage

309

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.