Schmidt Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kay Lake Multnomanh Channel Dam #2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Schmidt, Howard Reservoir in North Plains, Oregon, is a privately owned water resource managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
Built in 1969 for recreational purposes, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2.64 acres and a drainage area of 0.22 square miles, the reservoir serves as a tranquil getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Situated along the East Fork McKay Creek, this reservoir offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's low hazard potential and not rated condition assessment ensure its safety for recreational activities. Equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate, the reservoir's last inspection was conducted in October 2018 with a regular inspection frequency of 6 years. While the emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are not provided, the reservoir's impact on the local ecosystem and water supply in Washington County, Oregon, remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Overall, Schmidt, Howard Reservoir is a valuable recreational asset in the region, providing a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts while also serving as a water storage facility. Its history, design features, and regulatory oversight by the Oregon Water Resources Department make it a fascinating subject for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. The reservoir's contribution to the local ecosystem and its role in supporting outdoor recreation activities underscore the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK MCKAY CREEK, TRIB TO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.64 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Schmidt, Howard Reservoir
Happy Rock Moorage Inc.