Hunter Reservoir (Harney) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hunter Reservoir, located in Harney County, Oregon, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir situated along Little Crane Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 1400 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1096 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 49.5 acres and serves the primary purpose of irrigation in the region.

With a significant hazard potential, Hunter Reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 360 cubic feet per second and plays a crucial role in water management in the area. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the reservoir's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not provided in the data.

Despite its remote location in Venator, Oregon, Hunter Reservoir plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam's strategic placement along Little Crane Creek ensures a reliable water supply for irrigation purposes, highlighting the importance of efficient water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1130

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

LITTLE CRANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49.5

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

4.4

Nid Storage

1400

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.