Kennel Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Kennel Reservoir, located in Polk, Oregon, is a significant water resource that serves the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1977, this private-owned reservoir has a dam height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. With a surface area of 12.6 acres and a drainage area of 0.37 square miles, Kennel Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kennel Reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a maximum discharge capacity of 124 cubic feet per second, the reservoir poses a significant hazard potential. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the reservoir's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not documented, raising concerns about its ability to address potential emergencies effectively.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kennel Reservoir presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation facility in Oregon. Its location on Berry Creek, a tributary to the region, underscores the interconnectedness of water systems in the area. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage patterns, understanding the management and regulation of reservoirs like Kennel becomes increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water resource management practices.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

940

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BERRY CREEK, TRIB TO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.6

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.37

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

27
       
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.