Willow Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Willow-Skull Dam Green Spot
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Willow Reservoir in Harney, Oregon, is a Federal-owned Earth dam that serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Skull Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 21 feet and a storage capacity of 80.8 acre-feet, this reservoir covers an area of 12.2 acres and has a drainage area of 0.9 square miles. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, Willow Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing habitat for fish and wildlife in the region.
Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Willow Reservoir is equipped with necessary state regulatory oversight, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with relevant regulations. Although lacking detailed information on its construction year and recent maintenance activities, the reservoir continues to fulfill its primary purpose effectively. Its location within the scenic landscape of Harney County and its association with the Portland and Walla Walla Districts further underline its significance as a valuable water resource in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Willow Reservoir can appreciate the efforts put into maintaining this vital habitat for fish and wildlife. While the reservoir's risk assessment and emergency preparedness aspects are not fully documented, its importance as a conservation area and recreational spot cannot be understated. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and preserving such reservoirs becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable ecosystem management and resilience against changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
SKULL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
80.8 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Yellowjacket
|
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Emigrant
|
||
Emigrant Campground
|
Willow Reservoir