Rainier City Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Rainier City Reservoir, located in Columbia County, Oregon, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1954, the reservoir stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 14 acre-feet. Situated along Fox Creek, the dam serves as a crucial resource for Rainier City and the surrounding community. With a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a maximum discharge of 0, the reservoir plays a key role in ensuring water security in the region.

Owned and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Rainier City Reservoir has a significant hazard potential and undergoes inspections every three years. The dam, designed by CLARK & GROFF, features a timber crib structure with needle outlet gates. Despite being in operation for several decades, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated. As a critical component of the water supply infrastructure in the area, the reservoir's upkeep and maintenance are essential to safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring the continuous availability of water resources for the community.

In the event of emergencies, the reservoir's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are not currently available. However, with its strategic location and essential role in water supply, Rainier City Reservoir remains a key asset for managing water resources in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and management of such reservoirs is crucial for sustainable water management practices and resilience against climate impacts.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

147

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

FOX CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

14

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.