Alder Creek Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Alder Creek, located in Harney, Oregon, is a privately-owned dam that was completed in 1973 for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an Earth type structure with a height of 55 feet and a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. With a normal storage of 640 acre-feet and a drainage area of 11.3 square miles, Alder Creek plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Alder Creek has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam has a hydraulic height of 40 feet and a structural height of 63 feet, serving as a vital infrastructure for water storage and distribution in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 575 cubic feet per second, Alder Creek provides essential water resources for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its rural location and limited associated structures, Alder Creek remains a key component of the local water management system in Harney County, Oregon. With regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures the safe and efficient utilization of water resources for irrigation purposes. As a significant feature in the landscape, Alder Creek contributes to the sustainable development and climate resilience of the area, highlighting the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
ALDER CREEK |
Surface Area |
22.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
11.3 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Structural Height |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
63 |
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.
Alder Creek