Love Reservoir (Malheur) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Love Reservoir, also known as Oregon Trail Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Malheur, Oregon, along the UNNAMED TRIB/BIRCH CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 1907, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a length of 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 2560 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The reservoir covers a surface area of 160 acres and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department.

With a significant hazard potential, Love Reservoir is inspected every three years, with the last assessment conducted in May 2019. The dam features a slide (sluice gate) for outlet control and is situated in a remote location off Interstate I-84. While its condition is currently not rated, the reservoir serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and inspection to ensure its continued functionality for agricultural needs in the region.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Love Reservoir plays a vital role in providing irrigation water to the area. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, showcasing the enduring relevance of such structures in sustaining agricultural activities. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Love Reservoir in supporting agricultural practices in Malheur, Oregon, amid changing environmental conditions and water management challenges.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIB/BIRCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Nid Storage

2560

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

44
       
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.