Parsnip Creek Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Rome, Oregon, the Parsnip Creek Diversion is a privately owned irrigation structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 475 acre-feet. The diversion diverts water from the Parsnip Creek for agricultural irrigation purposes, benefiting the local farming community.

Managed and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, the Parsnip Creek Diversion is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. With a significant hazard potential, emergency preparedness measures are crucial for the safety of downstream areas in the event of a breach or failure. The structure features a slide (sluice gate) for outlet control and has a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation will find the Parsnip Creek Diversion a fascinating example of human intervention in water systems. With its strategic location and role in irrigation, this structure highlights the importance of sustainable water use and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key component of the local water supply network, the diversion serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between human activities and natural resources in a dynamic environment.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

PARSNIP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32.5

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

9.5

Nid Storage

475

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

42
       
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.