Summary
The dam, primarily used for irrigation purposes, is classified as an earth dam and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department. Despite its critical role in providing water for agricultural activities, the dam is considered to have a high hazard potential and is in poor condition, as indicated by a recent inspection in August 2020.
The dam at Lonesome Lake poses a potential risk to the surrounding area due to its deteriorating condition, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its hazard potential underscores the need for proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols. With the dam being located in a private setting and subject to state jurisdiction and regulation, collaboration between stakeholders is essential to address the safety concerns and maintain the integrity of the infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Lonesome Lake become increasingly crucial in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from potential hazards. The high hazard potential of the dam necessitates a comprehensive risk assessment and management strategy to mitigate the risks associated with its condition. By addressing the poor state of the dam and implementing necessary improvements, stakeholders can ensure the long-term viability of Lonesome Lake as a vital water resource for irrigation in the region.
Dam Height |
35 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dixie Drain Nr Wilder Id
|
52cfs |
Owyhee River Below Owyhee Dam Or
|
30cfs |
Boise River Nr Parma Id
|
813cfs |
Sand Run Gulch Nr Parma Id
|
36cfs |
Conway Gulch Below 1st St At Notus
|
11cfs |
Boise River At Caldwell
|
519cfs |
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.
Lonesome Lake
Big Bend Launch Site
Gordon Gulch Day Use
Jump Creek
Owyhee R