Haberlach Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Gladstone, Oregon, the Haberlach Dam, also known as Orchard Lakes Dam, is a private-owned structure regulating the flow of Rock Creek for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet. The dam spans 320 feet in length and covers a surface area of 2.75 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.68 square miles.

Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD), the Haberlach Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is inspected every three years to assess its condition, although it is currently not rated. Despite lacking a spillway type and outlet gates, the dam's hydraulic height of 17 feet ensures controlled water release, with a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Haberlach Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management for agricultural irrigation. Its location within the Portland District and proximity to urban centers like Gladstone highlight the importance of sustainable water resource practices in balancing human needs with environmental conservation. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety, the Haberlach Dam serves as a vital infrastructure supporting the local economy and ecosystem along Rock Creek.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

ROCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.75

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.68

Nid Storage

15

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.