Pearson Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Pearson Reservoir, located in Scholls, Oregon, is a private-owned water storage facility primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 64 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.32 square miles, the reservoir plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Pearson Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is inspected every 6 years to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. The reservoir's location along Christensen Creek, a tributary to a larger river system, highlights its importance in sustaining agricultural activities and supporting local communities in the area.

With its strategic location and reliable water storage capacity, Pearson Reservoir stands as a vital resource for irrigation and water management in Washington County, Oregon. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage patterns, maintaining and monitoring this reservoir will be crucial in ensuring sustainable water practices for the region's agricultural needs. The collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies underscores the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

64

River Or Stream

CHRISTENSEN CREEK, TRIB TO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.4

Hydraulic Height

60

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

64

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

64
       
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.