Oconnor Puddle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Klamath, Oregon, Oconnor Puddle is a private irrigation reservoir nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Reservoir Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 12.5 feet with a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. With a surface area of 28.2 acres and a drainage area of 4.65 square miles, this reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the region.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Oconnor Puddle is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the reservoir serves as a vital resource for the local community, especially during dry spells or drought conditions. With a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second, this reservoir contributes significantly to water conservation efforts in the area.

Overall, Oconnor Puddle stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in Oregon. Its presence underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources to meet the diverse needs of agriculture and the environment. As climate change continues to impact water availability, reservoirs like Oconnor Puddle play a crucial role in ensuring water security for future generations.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

RESERVOIR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28.2

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

4.65

Nid Storage

94

Structural Height

12.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.