Helms Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Westbrook Dam Spring Lake Estates
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Helms Reservoir, located in Linn County, Oregon, is a privately owned water storage facility primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1968, this earth dam structure stands at 25 feet high, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 13.7 acres. The reservoir is fed by the South Santiam River, a tributary in the region, and has a maximum discharge rate of 140 cubic feet per second.
Though classified as having low hazard potential, Helms Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Oregon Water Resources Department to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has not been rated for its condition, and the last inspection took place in December 2018, with a frequency of every 6 years. Despite being privately owned, the design of the dam was overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the valuable role that Helms Reservoir plays in supporting irrigation activities in the region, as well as its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. With its modest storage capacity and low hazard potential, the reservoir serves as a vital water source for agricultural purposes while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of structures like Helms Reservoir are crucial in sustaining water availability for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH SANTIAM RIVER, TRIB TO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Santiam River Near Jefferson
|
7220cfs |
Santiam River At Jefferson
|
13800cfs |
Willamette River At Albany
|
13800cfs |
Thomas Creek Near Scio
|
743cfs |
Lebanon Santiam Canal Near Lebanon
|
72cfs |
Luckiamute River Near Suver
|
3790cfs |
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.
Helms Reservoir
Green Bridge