Shaffer Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Shaffer Reservoir, located in Polk County, Oregon, is a private irrigation reservoir completed in 1987 with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This earth dam structure stands at a height of 15.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 13 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential, the reservoir is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
The reservoir, situated along the South Yamhill River tributary, covers a surface area of 2.8 acres and has a drainage area of 0.64 square miles. Its maximum discharge rate is 160 cubic feet per second, serving the agricultural needs of the surrounding area. Managed by private owners, Shaffer Reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management and supports the local farming community by providing reliable irrigation water.
Although not rated for condition assessment, Shaffer Reservoir remains a vital asset for water supply and agriculture in the region. With its strategic location and capacity for irrigation, the reservoir contributes to sustainable water use practices and climate resilience efforts in Oregon. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation will find Shaffer Reservoir to be an intriguing example of private sector involvement in water management for agricultural purposes.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH YAMHILL RIVER, TRIB TO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.64 |
Nid Storage |
13 |
Structural Height |
15.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Yamhill River At Mcminnville
|
8310cfs |
Willamette River At Salem
|
35800cfs |
Tucca Creek Near Blaine
|
123cfs |
Luckiamute River Near Suver
|
3790cfs |
Nestucca River Near Beaver
|
4610cfs |
Willamette River At Newberg
|
52600cfs |
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.
Shaffer Reservoir