South Fork Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
South Fork Reservoir, located in Harney, Oregon, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir along the South Fork Malheur River.
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Summary
Built in 1968, this Earth dam stands at 28 feet high and has a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet. With a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 14.4 square miles, the reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation purposes in the area.
Despite its modest size, South Fork Reservoir has a significant hazard potential and is categorized as having a moderate risk (3) assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide gate for outlet control. Regular inspections are conducted on a biennial basis to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, and all necessary permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place to manage its operations effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, South Fork Reservoir serves as an essential water management infrastructure in the region, contributing to irrigation needs and water supply reliability. With its strategic location and design specifications, the reservoir continues to play a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and environmental sustainability in the area. As a privately owned facility, it demonstrates the collaborative effort between public and private entities to manage water resources effectively and efficiently.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK MALHEUR RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
14.4 |
Nid Storage |
625 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
South Fork Reservoir