Iverson Reservoir (Douglas) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Douglas County, Oregon, Iverson Reservoir is a private water resource managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 32 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.4 acres, the reservoir is situated along Bear Creek and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Although Iverson Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway type and width are not specified, but its maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 160 cubic feet per second. With its location in the Portland District and oversight by the OWRD, Iverson Reservoir provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area while also serving as a vital water resource for the region.

While Iverson Reservoir may not be as large or well-known as some other water bodies in Oregon, its significance lies in its contribution to local recreation and the conservation of water resources in the region. The dam's design and construction reflect the importance of balancing human needs with environmental preservation, making it a valuable asset in managing water supply and supporting ecosystem health in Douglas County. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the careful management of reservoirs like Iverson becomes increasingly essential for sustaining both human and ecological well-being in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.4

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
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.