Lost River Diversion Reservoir Report
Nearby: Botens Reservoir Link River Diversion
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lost River Diversion, located in Klamath, Oregon, is a significant federal water infrastructure project managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.
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Summary
Completed in 1912, this concrete dam on the Lost River serves primarily for irrigation purposes, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the region. With a height of 41 feet and a length of 675 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet and plays a crucial role in water management in the area.
The Lost River Diversion is a key component of the Bureau of Reclamation's operations, with responsibility for design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation falling under the agency's purview. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed as in good condition. However, details regarding emergency preparedness, risk assessment, and management measures are not readily available. The dam's location in a remote area and lack of updated emergency action plans raise questions about its resilience to potential climate-related challenges.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lost River Diversion presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and climate change. Understanding the history, design, and current condition of this vital irrigation structure sheds light on the challenges and opportunities facing water resource management in the face of evolving climatic conditions. As discussions around sustainable water use and infrastructure resilience continue, the Lost River Diversion serves as a valuable example of the complexities involved in ensuring water security for agricultural communities in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
LOST RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
281 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
2300 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Canal At Highway 97
|
104cfs |
Link River At Klamath Falls
|
928cfs |
Ady Canal At Highway 97
|
39cfs |
Klamath Straits Drain Near Worden
|
1cfs |
Klamath River At Keno
|
698cfs |
Klamath River Blw John C.Boyle Pwrplnt
|
902cfs |
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.
Lost River Diversion
Upper Klamath Lake Near Klamath Falls
Crystal Springs