South Fork Reservoir

SOUTH FORK MALHEUR RIVER· Harney, Oregon· Built 1968· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

South Fork Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 54.8% in OR)
Dam Length900 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage625 acre-ft
Normal Storage536 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Drainage Area14 sq mi
Max Discharge418 cfs
Year Completed1968 (58 years old)
NID IDOR00498

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: October 30, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OWRD

Ownership

TREE TOP RANCHES

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of South Fork Reservoir?

South Fork Reservoir is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates South Fork Reservoir?

South Fork Reservoir is owned by TREE TOP RANCHES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was South Fork Reservoir built?

South Fork Reservoir was completed in 1968, making it 58 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of South Fork Reservoir?

South Fork Reservoir serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is South Fork Reservoir?

South Fork Reservoir has a dam height of 28 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was South Fork Reservoir last inspected?

South Fork Reservoir was last inspected on October 30, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.