Welch Reservoir (Widman #2) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Welch Reservoir (Widman #2) is a privately owned earth dam located in Baker, Oregon, serving the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Built in 1890, this reservoir has a dam height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 32 acres and is fed by the West Fork Love Creek and two gulches.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Welch Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the region. The dam features a needle outlet gate and a hydraulic height of 8 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 60 cubic feet per second. The reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its age, Welch Reservoir continues to support the local community's irrigation needs efficiently. Its strategic location and reliable water storage capacity make it a vital resource for sustaining agriculture in the area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can appreciate the reservoir's historical significance and ongoing role in water management in Baker, Oregon.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
W .FORK LOVE CREEK+2 GULCHES |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Welch Reservoir (Widman #2)