Sparks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sparks, located in Deschutes, Oregon, is a privately-owned irrigation dam completed in 2002 with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and is primarily used for irrigation purposes. It is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a significant hazard potential, Sparks has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it is subject to a regular inspection frequency of 3. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, emergency action plans and risk management measures have not been formally documented. Despite the lack of certain risk assessment details, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for agricultural activities in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.

As a key feature in the water resource infrastructure of Deschutes County, Oregon, Sparks dam serves as a vital component in the irrigation system that supports local agriculture. While more detailed assessments and plans for risk management may be needed, the dam's presence underscores the importance of proper maintenance, regulation, and oversight to ensure the sustainable use of water resources in the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Sparks in contributing to the agricultural landscape while also recognizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard its functionality and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Height

19

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.