Davis Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

Oregon

Nearby: Justesen Reservoir #1 Buether Upper Reservoir

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Davis Lake Dam in Sherman, Oregon, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department.

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earthen dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 54.6 acre-feet, serving primarily for purposes classified as "Other." The dam's low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment suggest a stable and secure structure.

Located in the Portland District, Davis Lake Dam features a slide gate as its outlet control mechanism and was last inspected in December 2015. Despite its relatively small surface area of 8.7 acres and lack of associated structures, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures the safe and efficient utilization of water resources in the area, making it a vital component of the local hydrological infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Davis Lake Dam represents a fascinating example of private ownership contributing to water management efforts in Oregon. With its strategic location and functional design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure for environmental sustainability and community well-being. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Davis Lake Dam will play a crucial role in adapting to and mitigating the challenges posed by shifting hydrological patterns.

Dam Height	23
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	8.7
Nid Storage	54.6
Outlet Gates	Slide (sluice gate)
Hazard Potential	Low
Nid Height	23

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Deschutes River At Moody 5500.0cfs	5500cfs
Columbia River At The Dalles 120000.0cfs	120000cfs
John Day River At Mcdonald Ferry 1710.0cfs	1710cfs
Warm Springs River Near Kahneeta Hot Springs 360.0cfs	360cfs
Pine Creek Near Clarno 7.67cfs	8cfs
Beaver Creek 35.5cfs	36cfs

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.