Columbia River Orchard Reservoir 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Columbia River Orchard Reservoir 2 is a private irrigation reservoir located in Douglas County, Washington, along the Columbia River.


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Summary

Built in 2008 by J.U.B Engineers, this offstream dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3.8 acres and a drainage area of 0.01 square miles, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, Columbia River Orchard Reservoir 2 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in August 2018. With an emergency action plan in place and regular inspection frequency, the reservoir ensures the safety of nearby communities and the surrounding environment in the event of a potential breach or failure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Columbia River Orchard Reservoir 2 serves as a vital infrastructure for sustainable water management in the region, highlighting the importance of efficient irrigation systems in supporting agricultural productivity while mitigating risks associated with dam safety. Its strategic location along the Columbia River and state-of-the-art design by J.U.B Engineers underscore the critical role of private reservoirs in enhancing water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

2008

River Or Stream

Columbia R - offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

47

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.