Turnbull Peak Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Turnbull Peak Reservoir, also known as Dowell Reservoir, is a private water resource nestled in the Malheur County of Oregon.


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Summary

This reservoir, constructed in 1983, serves primarily for irrigation purposes and has a storage capacity of 754 acre-feet. Situated in the scenic surroundings of Dowell Ranch, the reservoir is fed by Cotton and Dick Creeks, covering an area of 170 acres with a drainage area of 52.5 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, Turnbull Peak Reservoir stands as a vital component of the local water management infrastructure. The earth dam, standing at a height of 13 feet and a length of 4000 feet, ensures the reliable storage and controlled release of water for agricultural needs in the region. The reservoir is state-regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with inspection and enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure its safe operation.

Managed by private owners, Turnbull Peak Reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining the agricultural activities in the region, providing a reliable water source for irrigation. With its picturesque location and efficient design, this reservoir exemplifies the importance of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring sustainable water use for future generations.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

4000

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

COTTON & DICK CREEKS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

170

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

52.5

Nid Storage

754

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.