Sparks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sparks is a Federal-owned dam located in Bend, Oregon, along Soda Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA Forest Service, this Earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond, irrigation, and recreation. With a height of 9 feet and a length of 130 feet, Sparks provides a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 250 acres and draining an area of 36 square miles.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment, Sparks has not been rated for its condition. Last inspected in July 2017, with an inspection frequency of 10 years, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam lacks certain safety features, raising concerns about its overall resilience and ability to withstand potential hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the story of Sparks presents an opportunity to explore the intricacies of dam management and the delicate balance between environmental conservation and human recreation. As a key player in the local ecosystem, ensuring the safety and sustainability of Sparks will be crucial for protecting the surrounding wildlife and water resources, while also providing recreational opportunities for the community. With ongoing assessments and potential upgrades, Sparks represents a vital piece of the puzzle in managing Oregon's water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SODA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

250

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

36

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.