Pitt Lake Dam, located in Bonanza, Oregon, serves as a crucial irrigation source with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural activities.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet. The dam spans 310 feet in length and is situated along Barnes Valley Creek, a tributary to Pitt Lake.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Pitt Lake Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features slide gates for outlet control and has a maximum discharge capacity of 118 cubic feet per second. While its condition assessment currently stands as "Not Rated," the dam continues to play a vital role in the local water resource management efforts, contributing to the sustainability of agricultural practices in the surrounding area.
With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, Pitt Lake Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of early water resource developers in Oregon. As a privately owned structure, it exemplifies the collaboration between private owners and state regulatory agencies in managing water resources efficiently and responsibly. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Pitt Lake will be crucial in ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
BARNES VALLEY CREEK, TRIB TO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Link River At Klamath Falls
|
928cfs |
North Canal At Highway 97
|
104cfs |
Ady Canal At Highway 97
|
39cfs |
Klamath Straits Drain Near Worden
|
1cfs |
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
56cfs |
Sprague River Near Chiloquin
|
219cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lofton Reservoir
|
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Holbrook Reservoir
|
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Wildhorse Camp
|
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Basin Camp
|
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Cottonwood Complex
|
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Dog Lake Campground/Day Use Boat Ramp Area
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