Mt. Springs Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mt.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Springs Ranch Dam, also known as Buell-Red Prairie Reservoir, is a privately owned structure located in Sheridan, Oregon. Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. Situated on Gooseneck Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region, with a drainage area of 1.67 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 730 cubic feet per second.
With a significant hazard potential, Mt. Springs Ranch Dam is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Although the dam has not been conditionally rated, its inspection frequency is set at every three years to monitor any potential risks and ensure proper maintenance. The dam also lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and other risk management measures, highlighting the importance of preparedness and safety protocols for this essential water resource infrastructure.
Overall, Mt. Springs Ranch Dam serves as a vital component of the local irrigation system, providing water storage and distribution for agricultural activities in the area. Its strategic location on Gooseneck Creek and significant storage capacity make it a key asset for water resource management in Polk County, Oregon. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage, maintaining the integrity and safety of dams like Mt. Springs Ranch Dam is crucial for sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
GOOSENECK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.41 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
1.67 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Luckiamute River Near Suver
|
3790cfs |
South Yamhill River At Mcminnville
|
8310cfs |
Tucca Creek Near Blaine
|
123cfs |
Willamette River At Salem
|
35800cfs |
Nestucca River Near Beaver
|
4610cfs |
Siletz River At Siletz
|
4760cfs |
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.
Mt. Springs Ranch Dam
Little Luckiamute River
South Yamhill River
North Fork Siletz River