TC UC-NRLF P1A45 REPORT TO DESERT LAND BOARD ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT By JOHN pUBUIS Field Inspector SALBM, ORBGON : STATE PRINTING DEPARTMENT 1915 REPORT TO o^i DESERT LAND BOARD ON ... ,'"'/ ;,^; CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SEEPAGE LOSSES AND CANAL CAPACITIES BY JOHN DUBUIS Field Inspector December 1, 1914 SALEM, OREGON: STATE PRINTING DEPARTMENT 1915 PILOT BUTTB CANAL NEAR REDMOND REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 3 CONTENTS PAGE Synopsis 5 Introduction Scope of investigations 8 Personnel 8 Description of Project: Location 9 Water supply Climatic and agricultural conditions 9 Irrigation plan 10 Water Supply: Source 11 Water requirements at Bend 12 Water requirements below Bend 12 Water requirements above Bend 14 Safe Capacities: Definition 15 Central Oregon Canal 15-16 Laterals of Central Oregon Canal 17 North Canal 17 Pilot Butte Canal 18 Laterals of the Pilot Butte Canal 18 Determination of the Value of "N" 19 Summary of Results 20 Transmission Losses: Nature of Problem 21 Location and Description of Gages 21 Discharge Measurements by Current Meter 22 Weirs 23 . Method of Procedure 23 Units Used in Expressing Transmission Losses 23 Computations 25 North Canal 25 Pilot Butte Canal: Main Canal 27 Lateral Systems 30 Lateral E 30 Lateral Fi 31 Lateral B 31 Lateral A21 31 Lateral Ci 32 Lateral J 32 Summary 33 Central Oregon Canal: Main Canal =. 34 Lateral Systems 36 Lateral A 36 Lateral D 37 Lateral H 38 Lateral I 38 Lateral P 39 Summary 39 Farmer's Ditches 40 Evaporation 40 M75880 4 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT CONTENTS Continued. PAGE Transmission Losses Continued. Summary of Losses 41 Pilot Butte System 41 Central Oregon System Seepage Conditions on Entire Systems Comparison of Results with Other Data Remedies for Losses 45 Weather Conditions 46 Crop Report and Census: Report . 47 Percentage of Cleared Land Not in Cultivation 47 Duty of Water 49 Adequacy of System: General 57 Pilot Butte Canal 57 Central Oregon Canal , 58 Cost of Repairing Deficiencies in Capacities: General 59 Central Oregon Canal 59 Pilot Butte Canal 60 Operation and Maintenance: General 61 Maintenance 61 Operation 62 ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Pilot Butte Canal near Redmond FRONTISPIECE. North Canal 25 North Canal 26 Pilot Butte Canal, Mile Post 6.88 28 Lateral A, Central Oregon Canal 36 Lateral D, Central Oregon Canal 37 Lateral A 10 , Central Oregon Canal 45 DRAWINGS PAGE Fig. 1. Condition of North Canal, 1914 10 ' 2. Daily Flow of Deschutes River near Bend, Oregon 13 3. Gage Types 22 4. Central Oregon Irrigation Project 24 5. Distribution of Water Diverted at Intake 43 6. Water Diverted at Canal Intakes 52 7. Capacities of Central Oregon and Pilot Butte Canals 58 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 5 SYNOPSIS The following report contains data relative to the physical condition of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company's Project, together with cer- tain conclusions therefrom. These conclusions in brief synopsis are herewith presented. 1. The total water lost in transmission through the canals from point of diversion at the river to place of use on the farmers' land, including losses in farmers' ditches, ranges from 67% to 75% of the total amount diverted from the river. 2. The losses in main canals and laterals from river diversion to point of delivery by the Company at or within one-half mile of the farmers' land, range from 45% to 57% of that diverted. Losses in main canals alone amount to from 25% to 40% of the water diverted from the river. 3. These heavy losses seem to be due to the porous, seamy nature of the lava rock which underlies the greater part of the segregation, to the relatively shallow soil, and to the character of construction of the canals. Caves, underground channels, and sink holes have been noted in places where this rock is exposed. Canals have been built wider and more shallow than proper, in order to avoid rock excavation. Where natural depressions were used the water has been allowed to spread over large areas. Since the loss of water is to a certain degree directly proportional to the wetted area, some of the excess loss is the natural result of this excess area. 4. The soil itself is relatively tight. Recorded losses sometimes run as low as 0.3 cubic foot per square foot of wetted area per 24 hours. Where the seamy rock is encountered however, the losses will run up to 3.0 cubic feet per 24 hours, and in the case of the North Canal the remarkable figure of 45.0 cubic feet per square foot of wetted area was obtained. 5. It is believed that in canals dug entirely in earth without encoun- tering rock or gravel, the loss will be about 0.6 cubic foot per square foot of wetted area in 24 hours. 6. Evaporation loss in comparison with seepage and leakage loss is so small as to be negligible. 7. The greatest losses are in the main canals and the places of their occurrence are thus easily accessible. From this and other data at hand it is probable that losses in canals and laterals can be reduced to 40% of the total water diverted from the river without resorting to expensive methods of lining. 8. The duty of water of 1.8 acre feet per acre in 90 days may be sufficient after the project is well settled and all lands are under culti- vation, although the settlers have been using more than this amount. (The proper duty for this or any project is not that which gives the greatest crop yield per unit of water used, but must take into consideration the cost of the land and water, value of crops, cost of labor, and other invest- ment costs, and should be that which shows the greatest net profit in money to the farmer. A proper distinction should be made between the "economic use of water" and the "economic duty of water," as they are not synonymous terms.) '6' ' ORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 9. The present capacity of the main canals is insufficient to water all the lands sold and patented and listed for patent, if losses are not brought below 40%. 10. The condition of wooden structures on the project is unsatisfac- tory. Many cannot be expected to stand five years longer, and some have already passed the stage of economic usefulness. The estimated cost of replacing these wooden structures is $130,000. This includes weirs, headgates and flumes. 11. Insufficiency of maintenance and assumptions of design which were not fulfilled in construction, are responsible to a large extent for the poor conditions on this project. 12. The proper cost of maintenance and operation should be in excess of $45,000 and should provide a proper sinking fund to replace the temporary wooden structures. 13. The value of water made available by lessened seepage losses estimated by the Department of Agriculture in Bulletin No. 126, is $3,000 per second foot saved. On the basis of sold lands on the project, amounting to 45,500 irrigable acres, the loss to the community repre- sented by the present seepage loss as against the allowable loss provided for in contract is about $800,000. Should the losses be reduced to 40% a saving to the community of $500,000 would result. The cost of reducing losses even to 30% should be far less than $800,000. 14. It is believed that a large part of the transmission losses can be eliminated if proper maintenance be done as estimated in item 12 above. 15. Seepage losses must be greatly reduced, or the canals must be enlarged if all the lands now under the canal system are to be watered. In view of the water supply situation the former expedient is the most advisable and to accomplish this it is recommended that the maintenance and operation department be greatly increased and a systematic effort made to reduce the excess wetted area of canals, to discover and cement leaks in canals, and drops, to work out effective designs of structure and systematically replace the worn-out structures with better ones, to the end that the system be more efficiently operated, that the maintenance and operation costs be decreased, and that there be a positive assurance that there will be an adequacy of capacity to supply all lands now under the canal system. 16. It has been stated in the past that engineers as a rule make an allowance of 20% of the total irrigable lands in a project for lands which will never be irrigated, such as lands taken up by roads, buildings, beds of streams, high land, waste lands, rights of way and even towns. Attention is called to the fact that in the recent reports on irrigation projects in the Northwest including projects intermingled with and adjacent to this project, no mention is made of any such allowance, although the matter of water supply and irrigation requirements have been most carefully considered by men of national reputation. In view of recent investigations of this subject and in view of the methods adopted by modern engineering practice which eliminates this allowance from serious consideration, it is not to be considered on this project for the following reasons: a. High lands, waste lands, town areas, stream bed areas and some rights of way have already been eliminated from the irrigable area considered under the project. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 7 b. No practicable rule to make any such allowance in the actual distribution of water has ever been suggested. c. The poor condition of irrigation system and uncertainty regarding duty of water render such allowance unsafe. d. The following legal question presents itself: Has not the settler the right to demand all the water his contract calls for regardless of the amount of land he has in cultivation? Has any irrigation company the right to sell water rights for, say, 20,000 acres of land and provide water for only 16,000 acres on the theory that 4,000 acres will not be in cultivation? 17. Popular opinion is that after an irrigation project is constructed the difficult work is over. Experience has proven that after the construction of an irrigation project is completed the real problems develop, the correct solution of which determine the success or failure of the venture. 18. It is recommended that prior to the active construction of any irrigation project by public or private funds, the following points should be given most careful and thorough investigation, even though the cry for immediate action and relief be urgent: 1. Water Supply. Sufficiency of water supply is absolutely essential. 2. Agricultural conditions, climate, character of crops, character of soil and subsoil upon which an estimate of duty of water to be based. 3. Market conditions, value of lands, value of crops, cost of living, etc., transportation facilities. 4. A financial arrangement which will be the most advantageous to the farmer and yet be sufficient to reimburse the expense of constructing and handling the project: 5. Design of the proposed works, which should take into considera- tion the following : a. The character of soil and subsoil conditions with reference to the elimination of losses and to providing an ample supply of water for lands. b. Minimum cost for maintenance and operation, taking into account interest on construction cost, depreciation of struc- tures, ease and economy in the distribution and measurement of water. c. The development of the project in small units whereby the lateral system may be extended as dictated by sales. (Lands in any unit, however, should not be opened for sale until all the land in that unit is provided with an ample lateral system. Thus construction can be kept just ahead of sales so that interest charges are low.) 8 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT INTRODUCTION In April, 1914, the writer was authorized by the Desert Land Board to undertake certain studies as to the physical condition of the canal and laterals of the Central Oregon Irrigation Project and to report thereon. The field work was carried on from May 1 to September 1, 1914, the compilation and computation of data being done entirely by the writer and his assistants. Whenever it was possible, cooperation was had with the engineering and operation department of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company. SCOPE OF INVESTIGATIONS The main object of this investigation was to determine the trans- mission losses on this project. The work included the investigation of canal capacities, condition of maintenance and collection of a crop census. PERSONNEL This work was done under the direction of John H. Lewis, State Engineer and Secretary of the Desert Land Board. The writer had charge of the work, and is glad to acknowledge his indebtedness to the following persons who have assisted him in the collection of data and preparation of this report: Walton Van Winkle, Assistant Secretary of the Desert Land Board, for many valuable suggestions and for assistance in the preparation of this report. William A. Schell, Portland, Oregon, office engineer. T. A. H. Teeter, Professor of Irrigation Engineering, Oregon Agri- cultural College, field engineer. A. E. Perry, Redmond, Oregon, field assistant. Robt. B. Gould, Bend, Oregon, special work. A. E. Lovett, County Agriculturist for Crook County, reporting on soil conditions. A. 0. Walker, Alfalfa, Oregon, keeping water records for duty of water and evaporation records. F. A. Kennard, Redmond, Oregon, keeping water records for duty of water. J. T. Ledbetter, Redmond, Oregon, keeping water records for duty of water. The writer wishes especially to express his appreciation of the coop- eration of C. M. Redfield, Chief Engineer, and C. L. McCauley, Water Superintendent of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company, whose advice and personal aid have been of great service in these investigations. It has been a continual source of surprise that so much work has been done by them with so little resource at their disposal, and it is due to their efficient efforts that conditions on the Project are not far worse than they are. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT LOCATION County: Crook. Townships: 13 to 18 South and 12 to 15 East, Willamette Meridian. Railroad stations: Bend, Deschutes, Redmond, Terrebonne. Estimated population of district: 5,000. Project headquarters: Deschutes, Oregon. WATER SUPPLY Source of water supply: Deschutes River; no storage as yet provided. Discharge in second feet for irrigation season, May, June, July, August, from 10 years' records: Maximum, 2,860 second feet; minimum, 1,250 second feet; mean, 1,770 second feet. CLIMATIC AND AGRICULTURAL CONDITIONS Average elevation: 3,300 feet above sea level. Mean annual rainfall about 14 inches. About three inches in irriga- tion season. Temperature ranges from 19 degrees to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Length of irrigation season: April 1 to November 1. Duty of water: Sufficient for ordinary irrigation purposes April 1 to November 1 and 1.8 acre feet per acre from May 23 to August 20. Character of soil: Disintegrated volcanic rock intermixed with volcanic ash, sandy and silty loam. Principal products: Alfalfa, grain, potatoes and hardy vegetables. Principal markets: Local; Portland, Oregon; Spokane, Washington. LAND CLASSIFICATION TABLE Name of Canal Central Oregon Pilot Bntte C. O. & P. B. Length of Main Canal 44.15 Miles 30.1 Miles 74.25 Miles Distribution System Laterals 187.51 Miles 175.08 Miles 362.59 Miles Irrigable Acres Waste Acres Irrigable Acres Waste Acres Irrigable Acres Waste Acres Total land under system "Total sold land Total unsold land .. Patented Sold 37,134 25,573 11,561 13,238 2,391 2,357 435 12,762.13 6,753.57 6,008.56 2,798.53 1,103.29 1,152.33 365.00 21,348 18,913 2,435 til, 975 t 1,302 3,352 707 10,725.91 8,195.86 2,530.05 4,465.16 1,116.87 1,639.42 1,127.41 58,482 44,486 13,996 f26,213 $ 3,693 5,709 1,142 23,488.04 14,949.43 8,538.61 7,263.69 2,220.16 2,791.75 1,492.41 Unsold Certified for Patent Sold Unsold Total lands deeded 26,732.06 acres Total number of contracts sold 1,034 Number of contracts in force (approximately) 950 Number of deeds issued 335 Number of farms 645 Number of people on farms 1,400 Area in cultivation in 1914 17,719 acres *This does not include sold lands under the proposed extension of the North Canal, not yet watered. These lands have been certified for patent by the State Engineer and are now pending before the Secretary of the Interior. f Includes 52 irrigated acres and 28 waste acres to be watered by North Canal. ^Includes 395 irrigated acres and 165 waste acres to be watered by North Canal. "Does not include 6,763.71 gross acres for which patent has been applied without certification. NOTE Irrigable acres here given are the actual irrigable acres on the land according to the best information in this office, proper reductions being made for canal rights-of-way, and therefore include the so-called "excess acreage." 10 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT The country is rolling, covered with sage brush and juniper trees. The predominating geological features are those common to volcanic regions. Dykes of cooled lava, caves and pumiceous deposits occur here and there over the project. Pilot Butte, a landmark in that region notable for its regular cone- like appearance is evidently a cinder cone marking approximately the center of considerable local activity in the past. The soil is productive; potatoes and forage crops do well. Under the encouragement of the Oregon Agricultural College in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture no doubt still greater diversity of crops than in the past will be generally practiced with profit to the farmer. IRRIGATION PLAN Irrigation is accomplished by gravity flow from Deschutes River. Two main canals, the Central Oregon and Pilot Butte Canals, with their respective distribution systems, carry the water to the irrigable lands. In computing areas to be served by these canals, waste land, high lands and rights of way for canals have been eliminated from the gross area, what is left being considered as irrigable and is sold as such to the settler. j| Unhnect- Seamy Rock C 3OOO' 4000' 50OO' Profile of North Canal showing Lined and Unlined Sections *~~y^L --=-.-^=^8 Concrete Designed Section North Canal Above Drop A = 116' V = 88 ft /sec "n".= .OI3 Q= 10 tO Sec- ft Designed Section North Canal A _Bejpw Drop |2 & ^ n"- 013 Q = 999.2 sec- Fig. 1. CONDITION OF NORTH CANAL, 1914 The Central Oregon Canal receives its water supply from the Pilot Butte Flume, a wooden box structure about 1.25 miles in length. This canal is about 44 miles in length, serving land in the vicinity of Bend, Alfalfa and Powell Butte. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 11 The Pilot Butte Canal originally received its water supply from the Pilot Butte flume. Now it receives its main supply from the North Canal which diverts water from Deschutes River about one mile north of Bend at the North Canal dam. This Pilot Butte Canal serves the lands in the vicinity of Bend, Deschutes, Redmond and Terrebonne. It was one of the earliest canals built and was later incorporated as part of the Central Oregon Irrigation Project, as now organized. It is an unlined canal about 30 miles long. The North Canal is incomplete as now constructed. Three main objects were contemplated in the design of this canal: First, to supply the North Canal Unit lands lying between the Pilot Butte Canal on the west and lands of the Central Oregon Unit on the east and south. Second, to supply water for about 8,000 acres of land in the Powell Butte District now under the Central Oregon Canal, by junction with this canal at the wood stave syphon. Third, to supply water to Pilot Butte Canal for all lands served by it. The North Canal dam is of concrete gravity overflow type and is located on Deschutes River about one mile north of Bend. The dam is curved on a radius of 179.19 feet, about 33 feet high and can carry a discharge of about 10,000 second feet with water five feet in depth over the crest. Water is diverted at this dam for certain power rights of local parties, also to supply the Deschutes Reclamation and Irrigation Com- pany's ditch, commonly called the "Swalley" ditch and also to supply the North Canal above mentioned. The North Canal was designed for a capacity of 1,000 second feet and was to be concrete lined throughout from the headgates to the junc- tion with the Pilot Butte Canal. The canal has been excavated this far but the lining is only about one-third complete. WATER SUPPLY SOURCE The water supply considered herein will be that obtained by the normal flow of Deschutes River during the months of May, June, July and August. The records of the United States Geological Survey show no fundamental difference between the discharge of Deschutes River at Benham Falls and at Bend and since the records of the former are more complete, they have been used to determine the available water supply for the project. The following table summarizes the flow of Deschutes River at Ben- ham Falls for 10 years, 1905 to 1914 inclusive, and indicates the water supply available at Bend. The complete data for this table are published by the State and the United States in the Deschutes Project report and in the Water Supply papers of the United States Geological Survey. May June July August Maximum in 10 years, sec. ft... 2,860 2,540 2,130 1,900 Minimum in 10 years, sec. ft.... 1,600 1,480 1,280 1,250 Mean for 10 years, sec. ft 1,932 1,890 1,689 1,569 Mean monthly discharge in acre feet for 10 years 119,800 113,400 104,718 97,278 12 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Figure 2 shows that 1,500 second feet can be depended on for seven years out of 10. The shortage which occurs in July and August of the remaining three years should not be serious enough to warrant a reduction of the allowable amount of 1,500 second feet. The relative rights of claimants to the use of the waters of Deschutes River has never been determined hence it is impossible to discuss at this time priority of rights as affecting the project. In the following dis- cussion all rights are assumed to be of the same value and the amount of water given is on the assumptions of use which are considered to be a minimum claim. WATER REQUIREMENTS AT BEND According to U. S. Geological Survey, Water Supply Paper No. 344, the Arnold and Swalley ditches contemplate the ultimate irrigation of 18,000 acres of land which lie close to and intermingle with the 58,000 acres under the constructed canals of the Central Oregon Project. Assuming a duty of one and eight-tenths acre feet in 90 days for this 76,000 irrigation acres and a loss of 40 per cent for seepage, this land would require a diversion of 1,267 second feet. Smaller rights, such as Wiest's lateral, City of Bend, Steidl & Tweet, etc., are estimated at about 30 second feet, which makes a total of 1,297 second feet which is a very low estimate of the irrigation rights at Bend. WATER REQUIREMENTS BELOW BEND Between Bend and- Cline Falls, the next point of diversion of water from the Deschutes, there is no appreciable inflow, the water of Tumalo Creek being entirely appropriated. The drainage of the Central Oregon Project is generally towards Crooked River and from the general char- acter of the land in the Tumalo Project it is believed that seepage returns to the Deschutes, if appreciable at all, would not effect the flow at Cline Falls. Hence sufficient water must pass all the diversions at Bend to satisfy rights at Cline Falls. This amount of water is not definitely known but may be estimated as follows: As estimated in United States Geological Survey Water Supply Paper No. 344, power is developed at the Falls to pump 14 second feet of water 95 feet in elevation. Assuming 56 per cent plant efficiency (80 per cent at power wheel and 70 per cent at pumps), the power necessary is: 14X9 *=270H. P. 8.8 x 56 For an effective fall of 20 feet the amount of water required is: 270 x 8.8 20 = 119 second feet to which is added 14 second feet, the amount of water pumped for irriga- tion, making a total of 133 second feet. This appears to be very con- servative as other writers have variously estimated the requirements at from 200 to 500 second feet. o CD uJ O Q' s CD Ct 2 z Q: LJ > a: (O u D r o en u Q L_ o Is < (D 0) TI - o rt I? i 5 1 3 0) to o 00 I 2 <u 0) (0 O <n W ! = * 14- 4.33J-PUOOSS Ul 14 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT WATER REQUIREMENTS ABOVE BEND The largest and most important of water rights above Bend is that of the Morson Land Company's Project at LaPine. This Carey Act project derives its water supply for about 30,000 acres partly from storage and partly from the normal low-water flow of the river. It has been estimated by other engineers that the return seepage from the stored water diversion would offset the diversions from the low-water flow, thus water rights at Bend would not be affected. The visibly porous nature of the soil would undoubtedly warrant this opinion, but it is questionable whether or not this return seepage would occur in time to materially add to the low-water flow during the period of maximum use. In view of the engineering opinions above mentioned and because of lack of data, the rights of the Morson Land Company are neglected for the purpose of this study. SUMMARY OF WATER RIGHTS Summarizing the above discussion, considering all rights of equal value, we have: Water rights at Bend 1,297 second feet Water rights below Bend 133 second feet Water rights above Bend second feet 1,430 second feet Thus it is seen that the water supply is hardly more than sufficient for lowest estimated requirements of constructed projects and allows a margin of only 70 second feet. On the 58,000 acres of the Central Oregon Project this extra 70 second feet would allow a loss of 44 per cent in this system. This allows a shortage of one year in every three and one- third years during period of maximum use. As will be noticed in the discussion to follow, the losses in the Central Oregon Project are now largely in excess of 44 per cent. Therefore, it is evident that practically all the available summer flow of Deschutes River is required for the diversions noted above, and the water supply must be augmented by storage before any additional lands can be properly brought under irrigation. In brief the results of the water supply study are as follows: First, the summer flow of Deschutes River is just sufficient for the irrigation of lands which are now served by constructed projects, includ- ing the 58,000 acres under the Pilot Butte and Central Oregon Canals provided losses do not exceed 45 per cent of that diverted. Second, 'storage will be necessary to augment the normal low water flow should any additional projects be contemplated which will divert water from Deschutes River between Crooked River and Benham Falls. Third, the water supply of Deschutes River is insufficient without storage to supply the 93,000 irrigable acres in Segregation Lists 6 and 19, together with all other irrigation rights for which actual construction work has been started or completed, unless losses on the Central Oregon Project are reduced to less than 40 per cent. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 15 SAFE CAPACITIES DEFINITION For the purposes of this report "safe capacity" of a canal is deter- mined by the maximum amount of water which the canal can carry with- out causing the velocity of flow to become so great as to cause serious erosion, and which will also leave sufficient clearance or vertical distance between water surface and top of bank to provide against ill effects of wave action, rise in water surface occasioned by the regulation of head- gates, and the irregular wearing down of banks by weathering or by trampling of cattle. The proper clearance between water surface and top of bank differs with the width of bank, character and amount of bank protection, and the relation between discharge and water level. This relation determines whether or not a large or small increase in depth of water follows a given discharge. The problem of safe capacity is capable of a rigid mathematical solution only when construction provides an even grade, a consistent cross section, an alignment void of excess curvature, and when the value of "n" or coefficient of channel roughness has been accurately determined. Such conditions seldom exist in practice and are particularly absent on the canals of this project. A careful study of the canal under conditions of high water will give the proper solution of the problem. Such studies have been made in the investigation herein reported. Observations by the writer and his assistants covered a period of maximum use in 1913 and 1914, during which time the canals carried the largest amount they had ever carried. Numerous cross-sections and discharge measurements were made, and as the determination of safe capacity has been on the basis of actual performance it is as accurate as is practically possible. It has been assumed that the canal will be maintained in a reasonably thorough manner and minor deficiencies have therefore been neglected. On page 20 is a tabulation of the values of "n" as determined on the Central Oregon Irrigation Company's project and in estimating safe capacity this value of "n" was changed from the value assumed in the construction profile where conditions clearly pointed out that such a change would be necessary. CENTRAL OREGON CANAL The Pilot Butte Flume diverts water from Deschutes River about four miles above Bend. It originally supplied both Central Oregon and Pilot Butte Canals but since the construction of the North Canal it sup- plies the Central Oregon Canal alone, together with only about 30 second feet for other rights. The flume is a wooden structure about 16 feet wide by 5 feet deep, and about 6,680 feet long on a grade of .002. The original structure was built during 1903 and 1904; and in 1904 and 1905 was enlarged to its present dimensions. The flume is constructed with light timber, poor footings, and other poor details of design so that the writer estimates for it a normal life of 15 years, although ordinarily the life of such structures would be from 15 to 20 years. The fact that the present flume was made by 16 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT enlarging a smaller flume accounts in a large measure for the quality of design. With continued maintenance and under favorable conditions of use, the flume may last a few years longer. The irrigation company has made some good repairs and in spite of the yearly deterioration, the flume may safely carry for a short time what it once carried, namely, 530 second feet; but a continuous load of more than 450 second feet is not considered advisable. In the first seven and one-half miles of the Central Oregon Canal, below the Pilot Butte Flume, a careful survey was made and cross-sections taken every 200 feet, to determine the safe capacity of the canal. The original design of this canal provided for a two-foot clearance between water surface and top of bank. This was a proper requirement when the canal was first constructed but where the banks have now become compact, and other conditions, such as width of bank, depth of water, etc., are favorable, it seems proper to allow less clearance. Accordingly, and in view of the present financial condition of the company, the writer has decided to allow 1.5 feet clearance instead of two feet, except where local conditions would make the larger clearance advisable. In earth sections without bank protection the max- imum safe velocity is considered to be not greater than 2.4 feet per second. In all cases it has been assumed that the canal would be properly maintained from year to year. The last column in the following table gives the capacities of Central Oregon Canal as determined on the above basis. The canal has less capacity in some few places than that indicated in the table and in others it has a greater, but the deficiency or surplus is of slight extent and hence is not considered sufficiently important to warrant any change in the rating given. Efficient maintenance will easily remedy any of the minor deficiencies. CENTRAL OREGON CANAL Capacities in 1914 Lateral.System Irrigable acreage under ' lateral Total irr. acres sold, patented or listed for patent under 0. O. canal at intake of lateral Required Capacity of main canal in second feet Safe Capacity in 1914 sec. feet 30 per cent losses 40 per cent losses A ... 5,292 1,319 2,498 1,868 2,765 606 1,694 628 3,158 4,156 374 6,191 30,549 25,257 23,938 21,440 19,572 16,807 16,201 14,507 13,879 10,721 6,565 6,191 436 362 342 307 279 245 232 207 198 153 94 89 510 420 400 - 357 326 280 270 242 231 178 110 103 440 36:> 356 286 286 284 280 280 190 144 130 130 B c x> Dl E F G H 1 j Powell Buttes In 1912, L. R. Allen, acting under authority of the Desert Land Board, inspected and reported on the capacity of the Central Oregon Canal. His report showed a material shortage of capacity in the main canal and his conclusions were confirmed in 1913 by the writer, who as inspector for the Desert Land Board made additional studies on this canal in company REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 17 with C. M. Redfield, chief engineer of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company. In the fall of 1913, enlargement work was undertaken by the company under the writer's inspection. Bad weather forced a discon- tinuance of the work before it was completed, and accordingly additional enlargement was made in 1914. Certain structures which were pointed out by the writer as being deficient were repaired and as a final result the capacities above mentioned were obtained, at a cost of approximately $14,000.00. Though the Central Oregon Irrigation Company was unable to obtain new money to expend upon these canal enlargements, they were financed by the release to the company of settlers' notes held on deposit with the Desert Land Board, to the amount of the cost of the work performed each month. LATERALS OF CENTRAL OREGON CANAL In the short time and with the limited funds available, an intensive study of all laterals was impossible; however, five of these laterals were carefully selected and it is believed the results obtained fairly represent average conditions on the project. In estimating the required capacity of these laterals a duty of one second foot to 80 acres was used. The proper clearance between the tops of the bank and water surface in laterals of from 10 second feet to 50 second feet capacity was taken as one foot but where extremely favorable conditions existed .slightly less than this was allowed. On this basis the safe capacity of Lateral I was found to be less than the required capacity. When 44 second feet was flowing at the intake, it was found that at many places the water was less than one foot from the top of the bank and in one place there was less than three inches clearance. Hence, the safe capacity at the intake was estimated at 40 second feet, provided maintenance would repair the worst places. The low places occur so frequently that to completely overcome the deficiency would require more than ordinary maintenance. Lateral D also appeared to be somewhat deficient near the intake, but since it can be easily repaired in the course of maintenance, no further mention need be made of it. As a rule the lateral systems are ample in capacity, needing only to be properly maintained. NORTH CANAL The specifications under which the first section of the North Canal was constructed call for a fully concrete-lined canal of 1,000 second feet capacity, as far as its junction with the Pilot Butte Canal. In construction, the greater portion of this canal was left unlined (see Figure 1), and the maximum amount of water it has ever carried is 340 second feet. This maximum discharge was maintained for only a few minutes because of damage, which threatened to become serious to the inadequately protected banks. After observing the behavior of the canal, both during this test, and many times before and since, the writer is convinced that a continuous flow of 306 second feet is all that the canal can safely carry under present conditions. 18 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT PILOT BUTTE CANAL In 1914, the Pilot Butte Canal carried the largest amount of water it had ever yet received. An examination of the canal made during this period showed such a large extent of low banks and such poor general condition that it was decided to adopt the maximum discharge carried during the season as its maximum safe capacity, as far down as Lateral C4. Below this point the maximum capacity is believed to be in excess of the amount carried in 1914, and is better represented by the figures given in the accompanying table in the last column. A small deficiency which was in evidence at about the 26-mile post during 1913 -was repaired in time for the irrigation season of 1914. CAPACITY OP PILOT BUTTE CANAL Lands Total lands under Required capacity of i second-feet lain canal Actual safe Lateral under lat- eralacres P. B. Canal at intake of lateral Losses 30 per cent Losses 40 per cent Losses 50 per cent cavity A3 . 44 21,388 306 356 428 280 A4 352 21,344 305 355 427 280 A4-1 124 20,992 300 350 420' 280 A6 654 20,868 298 348 417 276 AlO 166 20,214 289 337 404 245 A12 855 20,048 286 334 400 245 A 973 19',193 274 320 384 245 Al5 47 18,220 260 304 364 238 A17 44 18,173 259 303 363 238 Al6 921 18,129 258 302 362 205 A21 919 17,208 246 286 344 200 A27 227 16,289 233 272 326 200 B2 719 16,062 230 268 321 150 B 2,438 15,343 219 256 307 150 Bi 414 12,905 184 215 258 130 B3 73 12,491 178 208 250 130 Ci 318 12,418 177 207 248 130 c 2,954 12,100 173 202 242 130 C4 102 9,146 131 152 183 *130 D 62 9,044 129 150 181 129 D2 339 8.982 128 149 180 128 E 581 8,643 123 144 173 123 E2 119 8,062 115 134 161 115 D3 562 7,943 113 132 159 113 F 3,752 7,381 105 123 148 105 Gl 114 3,629 52 61 73 52 G 1,079 3,515 50 59 70 50 I 275 2,436 34 40 49 34 J 1,585 2,161 31 36 43 31 K 576 576 8 10 12 8 * From Lateral C4 to Lateral K canal capacity seems to be ample for 30 per cent losses with good maintenance. LATERALS OF THE PILOT BUTTE CANAL As under the Central Oregon Canal, certain representative laterals were chosen for study and the estimates based on a duty of one second foot to 80 acres. Lateral E was found to be deficient, due more to lack of maintenance than to any fundamental insufficiency of design. More than the usual amount of maintenance, done with more care, should put this lateral in good shape. The lateral systems as a whole seem to have been originally of ample size, but in many places they have not been well maintained. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 19 DETERMINATION OF THE VALUE OF "N" The flow of water in open channels is affected by the fall or grade, section, or size and shape of channel, and a certain quantity-figure which takes into account the degree of roughness of the channel or the frictional resistance it offers to the water flowing in it. This quantity- figure has been called "n" and is used by engineers in general to indicate the degree of roughness of a channel. When all the above factors regarding a channel are accurately known, the flow of water at any stage can be accurately determined but when any one of these factors is uncertain or missing such determination becomes uncertain or impossible. Therefore, to determine the capacity of any channel we must have an accurate discharge determination of the canal when running at full capacity or else we must know the grade, the area of cross section, wetted perimeter and the proper value of "n." Kutter's formula which contains "n," and is used to ascertain the value of any of the above factors when all the others are known, can be found in almost any book of hydraulics or civil engineer's pocketbook. Determinations of the value of "n" were made on the main canals and some of the laterals and flumes. Discharges were measured by current meter measurements or by weir measurement and slopes by level and chain. The results given here are good enough for practical purposes but variations in condition of canals were such that the results are subject to slight changes. TABLE* SHOWING VALUES OF "N" AS DETERMINED ON MAIN CANALS Name of lateral or canal Discharge in second feet Mean velocity feet per second Value of "n" in Kutter's Formula Remarks Central Oregon Canal Mile Post 4 290 1.87 .042 Channel very rough. Curvature may have some effect. Mile Post 7.. . 216 1.45 .036 Channel rough ; rock bottom. Mile Post 8.. . . 199 1.49 .038 Channel rough ; rock bottom. Mile Post 12.. . . 161 1.84 .030 Channel rough ; rock bottom. Mile Post 13.. . . 158 1.58 .030 Channel rough ; weeds bottom. Mile Post 15.. . . 141 2.48 .030 Channel rough ; rock bottom. Mile Post 17 121 2.20 .028 Some erosion of banks occuring Mile Post 19i/2 . 76 2.12 .025 Alignment good. Pilot Butte Canal Mile Post 6.88.... 187 2.05 .042 Very rough ; canals like a stream bed. Mile Post 8 ... 182 1.73 .049 Mile Post 9 168 2.30 .036 Mile Post 10 174 2.22 .030 Smoother section ; banks rip- rapped. Mile Post 12 ... 154 1.88 .034 Mile Post 13 152 1.86 .030 Mile Post 14 144 1.88 .049 Mile Post 18 125 2.48 .035 Mile Post 19 97 1.84 .025 20 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT VALUES OF "N" ON SMALLER LATERALS Laterals Discharge second feet Value of "n" Remarks Under Central Ore- gon System 13 43.00 17.00 .024 .0195 Fairly good condition. H 6.00 .022 Smooth section. D6 .035 Small ditch ; weeds and grass D . 4.00 .022 growing. P 7.83 .032 Rock and hardpan bottom. Under Pilot Butte System B 27.00 .025 Fairly good shape. B17 4.00 .019 Excellent section. B14 2.50 .020 In good condition. Bis 1.00 .024 Some rock. Fl .060 Weeds. E ,040 to .060 Badly grown up with weeds. Ci 5.00 .022 In good condition. J3 1.60 .021 Flumes on Size Value of "n" Remarks Lateral E 1x2 .017 Some silt in bottom ; leaking Lateral B 8'xlK' .014 badly. Alignment poor. Built in 1906. Lateral J 8'x8" .020 Very poor shape, dirt put in flume to stop leaks. SUMMARY OF RESULTS The values of "n" on the main canal are found to be much larger than in the original plans, the reason being that the construction left the canal with a very rough rock bottom. On the smoother sections of the Central Oregon Canal below the 12- mile post the values indicate construction practically as assumed in the original design. On the Pilot Butte Canal the values of "n" are like that of the natural water channels, especially in the upper portion and truly reflect the type of construction which prevails in that portion. The values of "n" in laterals average .022, when adverse conditions do not exist. Under the adverse influence of weeds and rocks the value ranges from about .035 to .060. The flumes tested here seem to give unusually high values of "n." This is caused by the settlement of bents, deposits of silt and general poor condition of the flumes tested. The small flumes seem to be gen- erally in poor condition. The larger flumes appear to be better main- tained although they are not altogether exempt from criticism. In some cases the value of "n" proved to be less than the assumed value and the resulting high velocities make bank protection necessary. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 21 TRANSMISSION LOSSES NATURE OF PROBLEM The problem involved under the head of transmission losses was the accurate measurement of the inflow and outflow waters from any section of canal or lateral, the difference being the amount lost in trans- mission by seepage, leaks and evaporation. To this end, gages were established at the intake and discharge end of each section to be studied, except where the measurement of water was already provided for by the presence of a weir, and all other inflow or outflow was measured mainly by weirs. LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF GAGES For many years the United States Geological Survey has maintained gages at the intakes of the Central Oregon and Pilot Butte canals, and since 1913 a gage has also been maintained at the intake of the North Canal. These gages are so located that they measure practically all waters diverted from the river and passing down the canals in which they are located. The discharge ratings as made by the United States Geological Survey were used in connection with these gages, except in the case of the North Canal gage. During the periods of investigation this latter was affected by back water caused by the choking of the channel below the gage with rock for bank protection. The change in rating caused by this back water was less than five per cent of the discharge indicated, but it was decided to make the correction in computing loss determinations. Previous to the arrival of the writer in the field, the chief engineer of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company had caused to be established gages as follows: On Pilot Butte Canal At 6.88-mile post, 15.50-mile post, and 21.00- mile post. On Central Oregon Canal At 2.56-mile post, 5.02-mile post, 7.51-mile post, 9.00-mile post, 11.00-mile post, 12.17-mile post, 14.92-mile post, 16.81-mile post, 19.50-mile post, 22.39-mile post, 26.60-mile post, and 28.60-mile post. Additional gages were established by the writer on the Pilot Butte Canal at 10.10-mile post and at the 18.00-mile post, and the gage at 21.00- mile post reestablished. A 10-foot Cippoletti weir at the 25.5-mile post on the Pilot Butte Canal and a 15-foot Cippoletti weir at the 34.00-mile post on the Central Oregon Canal completed the hydrometric control of the system. As the work progressed it was found advisable to abandon all the gages on the Central Oregon Canal except those at 11.00, 19.50 and 22.39- mile posts, as some were improperly located and because time would not permit the making of sufficient discharge measurements to rate so many stations. An attempt was made to so locate the gages that the discharge measurements could be made by wading, where there was quiet water and where change of section through scour or deposit of silt did not occur. It was not possible in all cases to fulfull these requirements and hence the gages above mentioned had to be abandoned. 22 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT The gages established by Mr. Redfield consisted of two-inch by four- inch pine timbers painted white and marked in feet and tenths by burn- ing with a hot iron. (See Fig. 1 of Fig. 3.) Those established by the writer are copies of the "Steward" staff gage in use by the United States Reclamation Service, the figures and lines being painted in black on a six-inch plank painted white. These planks were nailed to posts in the canal and braced to the bank. (See Fig. 2 of Fig. 3.) The Steward gage proved generally more satisfactory. Company Gae ni Fig. 3. Steward Gae Fl 2 GAGE TYPES DISCHARGE MEASUREMENTS BY CURRENT METER A Price Current Meter No. 1706 with interchangeable penta and single point head, with wading equipment, was used in determining the velocity of water. This meter was rated by the United States Geological Survey in January, 1914, at the rating station at Chevy Chase, Maryland. A tag line of oiled silk, marked every two feet, was stretched across the canal at the point of measurement. Sounding and velocity measure- ments were made at each two-foot mark or oftener if the canal was less than 20 feet wide. Two velocity determinations were made at each sound- ing station, one at two-tenths and one at eight-tenths of the total depth. The average of these furnished the mean velocity in that vertical section and the average of two adjacent vertical sections was applied to the area inclosed for the discharge in any particular two-foot section. The sum of these discharges in the two-foot sections across the channel gave the discharge past the total section. Meter rating comparisons were made from time to time against weirs or other rated meters and no change in rating was found to occur during the season. A complete rating of a gaging station requires measurements to be made at low water as well as high water. The water in the canal remained at such a constant stage throughout the season that a complete rating was not possible. However, for the stage of the water which existed during the actual seepage determinations, excellent ratings were obtained which, within the limits of this investigation, were as accurate as if complete ratings had been made. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 23 WEIRS Weirs have been installed by the Irrigation Company at nearly all diversions from the main canal, but not all farmers' deliveries are thus provided with measuring devices. The weirs are wooden and of Cippoletti type, but are not provided with sharp metal crests. When new and properly placed they make excellent measuring devices, but the wooden crests soon become dulled and thus subject to considerable error when low heads of water are used. However, with high heads this error is small. In computing discharges, the following standard formula was used: Q = 3.367 LH % 0, = discharge in second feet L = length of weir crest in feet H = head on weir in feet Tables of discharge calculated by the above formula, for different values of L and H, are printed in a small pamphlet entitled "Measure- ment of Irrigation Water," issued by the United States Reclamation Service. This pamphlet also contains a table of corrections for velocity of approach and submergence which was used by the writer whenever necessary. Temporary weirs were installed on unweired diversions wherever practicable. These were Cippoletti type, metal-crested weirs so constructed that they could be quickly installed, taken up, and used again. In most instances a carpenter's level was used to check the location of the nail or block on which the measurement of head on weir was made. This nail or block was located in the still water back from crest in order to avoid the effect of contraction of water over the crest. METHODS OF PROCEDURE The main canals being too long to be covered by one man in one day, they were divided into sections, each section so chosen that one man could complete, in a single working day, the work necessary to measure all the inflow, diversions and outflow in that section. Measurements were made beginning at the upper end of the section and reading all diversions consecutively down the canal. A large number of the weirs were affected by either submergence or velocity of approach, which had to be measured and recorded by the observer; thus it was found that 10 to 12 miles per day was about a day's work for one man. Ordinarily the regulation of headgates and hence the change in the flow of water during the day has a tendency to cause inaccuracies in measurements of this kind. The method used and the unusually constant amount of water flowing prevented serious trouble from this cause in the measurements on the main canals. However, on the lateral system regu- lation caused some trouble and some records were discarded from the final computations on that account. Sufficient readings were made in all cases until data checked and dependable results were secured. Water records were taken on forms designed for the purpose and they proved a great aid to speedy and accurate work. UNITS USED IN EXPRESSING TRANSMISSION LOSSES Two units are generally used in expressing seepage or transmission losses. One is expressed in cubic feet per square foot of area of canal section in contact with water in 24 hours, which is the same thing as 24 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT R. 13 E. PROJLCT MAP CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT (Ca-y Act) Showing Transmission Losses in Canals and Laterals -CSi -j - Legend Casio/ Losses <n Cu. ft per ^4 frours per S? ft of Mfeffect Area La/ens/ System Losses in tercentage of Wafer D/i*?rte& from Ma,n Cono/ Fig. 4. CENTRAL OREGON IRRIGATION PROJECT REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 25 depth per day on wetted area. The other unit is expressed as per cent of inflow per mile of canal. In view of the general use of both units by other investigators, losses are expressed in both units in this report. COMPUTATIONS Computations were checked by some one other than the person originally making them. A system of filing data was adopted and every effort was made to eliminate errors. NORTH CANAL The North Canal as now constructed delivers water to the Pilot Butte Canal at about 6.50-mile post. The amount of land which must be served by this North Canal delivery is practically 21,000 acres, requiring with 30 per cent allowance for transmission losses, 305 second feet and for 50 per cent losses, 427 second feet. (See Project Map, Fig. 4, for general location of canal.) ' The North Canal has been built for about 7,460 feet, of which 2,140 feet has been lined, leaving about 5,320 feet yet to be lined. NORTH CANAL (Showing erosion of riprapped banks) (Lined section in background) In 1913, shortly after the canal had first been used, a break occurred in the unlined section, evidently near one of the subterranean channels peculiar to this region. In order to close this break in a permanent manner, the canal was lined for about 50 feet, but the walls were not carried to 'the full height of nine feet. The incompleted canal has been used for the seasons of 1913 and 1914 and the high velocity was such that much of the riprap was destroyed. This riprap was placed on one- quarter to one slope as backing for the lining. Its destruction caused the banks to be seriously cut. 26 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT On August 8, measurements were made to discover, if possible, the amount and location of the losses in this canal. Accordingly, in coopera- tion with Mr. Redfield, measurements were made at the United States Geological Survey gage, at Boyd's Bridge and at the cement lining just a few feet above Pattie's Drop. (See Fig. 1.) The results were as follows: TABLE NO. 1 Station ^Discharge second feet Difference second feet Length of section lineal feet Estimated wetted area acres Loss in ft. depth per day of wet- ted area United States Geological Survey gage, section 1.. At Boyd's Bridge, sec- tion 2 301 297.6 3.4 36.4 1,800 2,700 1.0 1.6 6.8 45.5 Pattie's Drop 261 2 About 28 per cent of section one is unlined and it is quite likely that the larger part of the loss in this section occurs in this 28 per cent. NORTH CANAL (Riprap destroyed by erosion. Fall of 1913) Section two is almost entirely unlined and runs through a very seamy rock cut. A portion is partly in earth protected by riprap. A cave at Pattie's Drop indicates the presence of an underground channel into which the rock seams open and which undoubtedly causes hign losses at this point. No satisfactory operation of this canal can be expected until it is lined in some substantial manner. The overbreak on the canal has been quite heavy and before lining considerable riprapping must be done or REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 27 an excessive amount of concrete will be used. The writer estimates that an equivalent of six inches of concrete is necessary to accomplish the contract requirement of four-inch thickness of concrete lining. The following estimate of cost is based on the above assumptions. ESTIMATED COST OF COMPLETING CONCRETE LINING ON THE NORTH CANAL 2.532 cubic yards concrete lining at $12.50 per yard $31,600 Cleaning out canal and removal of rock projections estimated at 4,000 yards at 75 cents per yard 3,000 5,000 lineal feet of back fill or dry wall for concrete lining estimated at $1.00 per lineal foot 5,000 Proper repair of old lining 3,000 $42,600 Engineering, superintendence and other overhead charges, contingencies 20 per cent 8,520 $51,120 According to the supplemental report on the North Canal by Mr, Lewis in Oregon Cooperative Work, Bulletin No. 1, Deschutes River Projects, only 42 per cent of this amount is chargeable to the Pilot Butte Canal, which proportion amounts to $21,470 or $1.02 per acre for the 21,000 acres under the Pilot Butte Canal. In order to make this canal carry 350 second feet in a substantial manner, somewhat less than this sum is necessary. By building a cemented rubble masonry wall, about six feet high, through the section of the canal in earth cut, and by using cement mortar in some of the worst seams in the rock cut, cleaning out the canal and making this masonry wall strong enough to withstand high velocities, the result can be accomplished. The following estimate is based on the construction described above, which will provide a safe carrying capacity for the needs of the Pilot Butte Canal. This construction will serve as backing for later concrete lining and will reduce the cost thereof. ESTIMATED COST OF GROUTTL'D PAVING OR CEMENTED RUBBLE MASONRY LINING FOR NORTH CANAL 4.000 square yards of rubble wall at $3.00 $12,000 Cleaning out canal, removing rock projections 3,000 Cementing leaks 1,000 Engineering, inspection and contingencies, 20 per cent 3,200 $19,200 This is practically 90 cents per acre but the type of construction may require slightly increased maintenance cost over the concrete lining as provided for in the other estimate. PILOT BUTTE CANA^L Main Canal The Pilot Butte Canal was constructed about 1904. It originally obtained its water supply through a large flume about three miles south of Bend. Since the construction of the North Canal, very little water is carried by the Pilot Butte Canal above its junction with the North Canal. A number of determinations of loss were made on the main canal between 6.88-mile post and 25.5-mile post. The following table shows the results of three seepage loss determinations : 28 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT TABLE NO. 2 SEEPAGE LOSSES ON MAIN PILOT BUTTE CANAL June 26 July 17 August 15 Inflow second ft Outflow second ft. Inflow second ft. Outflow second ft. Inflow second ft. Outflow second ft. Inflow at 6 88 mile post 245 00 250 00 263 00 Outflow at 25.5 mile post. Diversions to lateral between Miscellaneous inflow 25 93 30 22 30.00 160.20 1 53 161.12 22~ 153.30 68 Loss in seepage and evaporation 59 48 66 70 73.48 Totals 246.53 24.3% 246.53 250.22 26.7% 250.22 263.68 28.0% 263.68 Loss in per cent of inflow at 6.88 mile post PILOT BUTTE CANAL, MILE POST 6.88 (Excessive wetted area permitting large seepage loss) The Pilot Butte Canal *as originally constructed took full advantage of water courses and draws and is aptly described by some of the older inhabitants as "a chain of ponds." Its condition was evidently greatly improved by the present company but the excess wetted area has not yet been eliminated. A relatively large increase in wetted area accompanies a small increase in depth of water in the canal, and thus the concurrent increase in loss is partly explained both as to amount and as to per cent of inflow. A survey of the canal was made shortly before the determination of losses on August 15, which survey determined the actual wetted area REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 29 02 "3 S E li S8S 38" I! to ft o abcg *- C * J US iH CO r IM* O e3 o to O D cq o eo eo e< o o * oo e<i rH 05 (M rH OO O5 CO CO 00 (M 00 t- 00 rH rH to O CO US rH 30 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT of the canal. Accordingly an intensive study of the canal was made from data obtained on this date to determine the relative losses in each section and the result of this study is shown in Table 3 below. To show the excess wetted area the following table is compiled. The wetted area given under heading of "Survey 1914" was computed from a survey of the water surface area by Robert B. Gould, of Bend, Oregon, under the writer's direction. Mile post to mile post Wetted area in acres Amount in excess acres Miles in section Per cent of present wetted area in excess Company profiles Survey 1914 6.88 10.1 16.38 16.28 12.25 23.90 16.05 25.20 20.04 16.61 32.26 19.30 8.82 3.76 4.3.6 8.36 3.25 3.22 3.07 2.33 5.50 4.50 35.0% 18.7% 25.2% 25.8% 16.8% 10.1 13.17 13.17 15.50 15.50 21.00 . 21.00 25.50 Total .. 84.86 113.41 28.55 25.2% The excess wetted area cannot account for all losses in the Pilot Butte Canal. Caves and underground channels into which sink holes open must undoubtedly be responsible for a large amount. It seems that many cracks and sink holes open into underground caves or passages and if water gets into these it is lost from the system. Excess wetted area increases the opportunity for the water to find these places and thus to leak away. Between 15.50 and 21.0-mile posts, the canal seems to have an imper- vious bottom and although the wetted area is excessive the loss is small. Passing the 21-mile post the canal makes a drop over a rock bluff and losses are high again. From this point north to Crooked River and west to Deschutes River caves and sink holes are found, some of which are used to receive waste water from the ends of the laterals. This waste water thus disposed of does not reappear on the segregation. Lateral Systems Each individual lateral system was studied as a unit, the inflow and outflow being measured by Cippoletti weirs. A number of runs were made to check results, to avoid unusual conditions, and to eliminate errors. As customary in weir measurements, corrections were made for submergence and velocity of approach. Records of loss determinations of each individual lateral system are given below. LATERAL E Location: Sections 3, 10, 15, 16, T. 15 S., R. 13 E. W. M. Condition: Grown up with weeds. Poor condition of maintenance. RECORD OF LOSSES June 20 June 22 June 23 Inflow at intake in second feet 4.47 4 74 4 74 Diversion from system 2 81 2 94 2QO Loss in system 1 66 1 80 Loss in per cent of inflow 31 1 % 38 % 382 f Average loss, 37.8%. Weather conditions: Cool and cloudy. Length of laterals studied: 5 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 581. Required capacity at intake, 1 second foot to 80 acres: 7.25. Estimated safe capacity, second f eet 5.0. Maximum recorded discharge in 1914: 5.80.- REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 31 Comment: Low safe capacity due to poor maintenance. Lateral has low grade and slow velocity, permitting silting growth of weeds and excess wetted area. LATERAL F-l Location: Sec. 33, T. 14 S., R. 13 E., between Redmond and Terre- bonne. Condition: Badly grown up with weeds. Excess wetted area. RECORD OF LOSS June 24 July 11 Inflow in second feet at intake 1.42 1.78 Outflow in second feet .69 .87 Loss in second feet .73 .91 Loss in per cent of inflow 51 4 % 51 1 % Average loss in per cent of inflow, 51.2%. Weather conditions: Sunshine, warm, except 24th of June, which was cloudy. Length of lateral studies: 1.2 miles. Acres under lateral (approx.) : 55 acres. Capacity: Sufficient with contract duty delivery to serve 55 acres. Comment: This short lateral has a low grade, resulting in velocities, silting and growth of weeds, hence losses are heavy. LATERAL B Location: Sees. 6, 7, 18, 19, 30, 31, T. 15 S., R. 13 E. W.M.; Sees. 12, 13, 24, T. 15 S., R. 12 E. W. M.; Sees. 30, 31, T. 14 S., R. 13 E. W. M. Condition: Good. No material shortage in capacity. Flumes poor. RECORD OP LOSSES July 2 JulyS July 6 Inflow at intake, second feet 24.77 23.79 27.37 Total diverted from system, second feet Total loss in system, second feet 18.02 6.75 17.91 5.88 20.58 6.79 Loss in per cent of inflow 27.3 % 24.7 % 24.8 % Average loss: 25.6%. Weather conditions: Sunshine, warm. Length of laterals studied: 17.5 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 2.438. Required capacity, duty 1 second foot to 80 acres: 30.5 second feet. Safe capacity at intake: 30.5 second feet. Maximum recorded discharge at intake, season 1914: 27.37 second feet. Comment: This canal system is characterized by a long main lateral. On the system as a whole but little trouble from silt or weeds is found. The prevailing velocities seem to be higher than in lateral F, and silting and weed growth is less. As long as the duty of water remains the same no serious trouble from deficient capacities should be expected. A few places on the sub- laterals or main laterals which might limit the safe discharge to a figure below that recorded can be easily taken care of by maintenance. LATERAL A-21 Location: Sees. 2 and 11, T. 16 S., R. 12 E. W. M. Condition: Little silt or weeds. 32 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT RECORD OF LOSSES July 17 July 20 Inflow at intake in second, feet 6.26 6.10 Diversions from system . . 5.26 5.11 Loss in system 1 00 99 Loss in per cent of inflow 16.0 % 16.2% Average loss: 16.1%. Weather conditions: Bright sunshine. Length of laterals studied: 3.25 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 919. Required capacity at Intake: 12+. Comment : System is compact and in fairly good shape and losses are low. LATERAL C-l Location: Sees. 20, 29, T. 15 S., R. 13 E. W. M. South of Redmond, Oregon. Condition: Fairly good; some silt and weeds. RECORD OF LOSSES June 29 July 11 Total inflow at intake second feet 5.15 4.97 Total diversions, second feet .. 4.35 4.52 Total loss, second feet .80 .45 Total loss in per cent of inflow 15.54% 9.05% Average losses: 12.25%. Weather: Sunshine, warm. Length of canal: 2.25 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 318. Required capacity at 1 second foot to 80 acres: 4.00 second feet. Capacity: Ample. Comment: This small lateral is an example of what can be expected in soils having relatively tight substrata. Throughout this region losses are low. As a rule the velocities are not low and the banks in good shape. LATERAL J Location: Sees. 10, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, T. 14 S., R. 13 E. W. M. North of Redmond and east of Terrebonne. Condition: Built too large; silted and weedy. RECORD OF LOSSES July 13 July 14 July 15 Inflow at intake, second feet ... 10.90 8.02 7 79 Total diversions, second feet 7.75 5.75 5 29 Total losses second feet 3 15 2 27 2 50 Total loss in per cent of inflow 28 8 % 28 3 % 32 1 /n Average loss: 29.8%. Weather: Sunshine, warm. Length of canals studied: 10 miles. Irrigable acres under laterals: 1,585 acres. Required capacity for duty of 1 second foot to 80 acres: 20 second feet. Safe capacity: 20+. Maximum water carried, 1914: 19.3 second feet. Comment: This canal was evidently built to serve a larger area than is now included under it. As a result a large canal must carry a small amount of water with consequent large wetted area and large losses. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 33 Summary Summarizing the results of the above data, eliminating C-l and F-l, the following table is given: Mean of Remarks Lateral Miles of canal in loss deter- mination per cent of inflow at intake E 5 37.8 Low velocities, excess wetted area. Door maintenance, weeds. B 17.5 25.6 Long main lateral. Fairly good gen fral conditions. J 10 29.8 Excess wetted area. Some weeds. A21 3.25 16.1 Short compact system. Good country The weighted mean of the above determination is 27.60. Taking into account, however, the fact that records on small laterals show from 10% to 50% loss, and that A-21 and B were in excellent country for low losses, while the larger portion of the laterals run through a soil permitting high losses, the writer decided to take 30% as representing the losses in the lateral systems under the Pilot Butte Canal. To show the losses as effected by the character of the material through which the canal is excavated, the following table is presented: LOSSES IN LATERALS OF PILOT BUTTE CANAL SYSTEM Lateral i ss II o Year built Miles of canal tested Loss per mile in per cent of inflow Daily loss per square foot of wetted area Classification of material through which canal is built, and general condition when tested 1. B (main) 2. J (main) 3. A21 (main).... 4. Cl (main) .... 5. B16 25.31 8.92 5.61 5.06 4.73 1906 1906 10 5.35 1.85 2.25 1.25 1.31 3.48 4.25 5.45 10 5 0.48 0.36 0.45 0.685 1 34 5% cemented gravel, 75% vol- canic soil, 20% rock bottom. 70% volcanic soil and loose rock, 30% volcanic sand. Disintegrated volcanic rock. Volcanic soil on side with rock bottom on steep grade. One rock drop of about 20 ft 6. E (main) 7. B7 4.65 4.29 1906 3.2 4 20 10.0 7.4 0.78 79 50% soil, 50% solid rock bottom. 60% volcanic sand on side of ledge, 40% soil. 90% volcanic soil 10% rock 8. B14 2.56 1.00 20.8 1.70 Same as B7 9. A21-9 1.80 .65 16.0 10. Ell 11. Fl .. 12. J13 1.72 1.60 1 59 1906 .80 1.17 1 48 43.6 10 .59 1.44 45 1270 ft. flume, 300 ft. ditch in sand. Loose rock and volcanic sand. 13. B5 1 54 75 26 1 39 Same as B7 14. J3 15. B19 1.42 1.11 1906 1.80 .50 16.1 10 8 65 Same as Fl. Volcanic sand ledge rock 16 J8 1 00 1 25 35 2 1 15 17. B16-3 94 1 00 39 4 2 20 drops. 18. B6 ... .78 .75 15.4 .52 sand. Volcanic sand 19. A21-10 .. .79 .40 47.3 20. B9 73 50 13 8 45 21. B17 68 63 28 2 1 37 22. A21-7 21 70 129 5 Same as B6 34 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT CENTRAL OREGON CANAL Main Canal The gaging section of the U. S. Geological Survey on the Central Oregon Canal is located in a flume at about 0.5-mile post, and measures all the water passing into the canal. It has been rated by the U. S. Geological Survey and the official measurements have been used in preparing the following table, which presents the result of a determin- tion of losses occurring throughout 33% miles of the canal on the dates indicated. The outflowing and diverted water was measured over Cippoletti weirs, correction being made for submergence and for velocity of approach, where present. June 13, 1914 August 14. 1914 August 20. 1914 Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow in second feet at United States Geo- logical Survey gage 0.5-mile post Total net diversions and outflow between .5 and 34-mile post 313.00 330.00 248.00 333.00 253.72 79.28 231.77 Total second feet loss in 33% miles of main Central Oregon Canal 81.23 82.00 Totals 313.00 26% 313.00 330.00 24% 330.00 333.00 23.8% 333.00 Total loss in per cent Weather conditions were normal except on June 13, which was cloudy and cool. The mean loss is 24.9% of the inflow. In 1913, meas- urements showed a loss of 33%, and while they are not as accurate as the results of 1914, they serve to show a decrease in the seepage losses on this canal in 1914. For further intensive study of seepage conditions, this canal was divided into three sections. Except where a weir could be used, as at the 34-mile post, and where a station had already been rated by the United States Geological Survey, as at the 0.5-mile post, gaging stations were installed at the beginning and end of each section and carefully rated. The table on the following page presents the results of this study: In contrast to the losses in the Pilot Butte Canal the percentage losses in Central Oregon Canal decrease as the season advances and with the increase in water flowing. This can be explained as follows: The Central Oregon Canal has, as a rule, well-defined banks, in contrast to the poorer construction of the Pilot Butte Canal. Recent enlargement of the Central Oregon Canal has improved these conditions, and leaks which were opened up in construction have been efficiently closed. High velocities occurring in Section II caused an erosion of banks, the material thus obtained being carried to and deposited in Section III, thus helping to close leaks. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 35 111 | 1 ^ q^j 3 ^2 ^ O X -OfO 1 <T jg rt M o M *^ ^ rt 03 C t^ o w^j .^ rf N 1 ffil 'o 5"^ Sd 11 ft ^ SoS = O ^ f^ r rts s s J .2 I *" "o w t> jC * 1-- o ^ |g d eale ^5 P 5 O ^ ^'E B fe jr; ^ Q OjB w cj "S ^ !-> es o +* ^ C^ ^ O J ^ S 5 H "^ z sjnoqrc CO <M OS (M CO IO oo oo a; t~o*# CO COCO ^ u -^a.vv 30 if o' o o' bS J8d 8801 o *> <D CO o H is C5 CO O5 MOO OJ t- Ci t- c- 1> ti 3 TH O O o a. a J ! K Jgl H i 10 co CAI co' 06 Tf CO CO -f<0co OSOt- t^ O5 O 05 SS lo'c-'od rH * * * i HO|l.;.)-~ JO pU9 ^B CO 1 - 1 - CO C<1 t- o'oo-* t- Oi Oi (MOTj< IO O c<l Ci iH Ci co co us OOOit- rH CO rH U5 CO t- CO 1 o 1 ^ OJ H Ilia 000 000 OOo in o o 000 000 d ^ 02 ^^3 *.2 CO O CO t-- O o CO O^ OO OJ O5 k2 * J * W ** 1-1 CO CO CO O5 Ol CO CO L^- & s J CO CO CO l-l-Hr-l * H i O s I I 05 9 d OJ 1 ' 1-H C<1 CO ' rH M CO 1 c ^ll ^ 03 05 7-1 03 W g <M 1 E be So | 33 c w>& HS-^^J t-5^-< i-5<!-< C 11 f 1 I* d h 2* 02 Q-iH 3 O 1 | 0> ^ 2 .2 5 fS 4 "* M 1 || la 1 fift d 4-1 i S I ^ J 05 <V P 1 ^ Q2 hL rH >-H H -o jflj >**( O 1; *H iH 1^5 ro ^H ^ G 3 I Ifl |g-| |g"g "3 q i i O ^ ^ g l^c * n Jgrioo ^ a REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Lateral Systems Each lateral system on this canal was studied as a unit. On each system a number of control runs was made. Where at all feasible, unweired deliveries or diversions were provided with temporary weirs. In all computations, corrections for velocities of approach and sub- mergence were made. The following tables show results of measure- ments on the individual laterals. LATERAL A Location: Sees. 13, 14, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 34, 35, 36, T. 17 S., R. 12 E.; Sees. 18, 19, T. 17 S., R. 13 E.; Sees. 2, 3, T. 18 S., R. 17 E. W. M. Condition: Runs through a rocky region. Leaks common. Laterals constructed with a large proportion of excess wetted area. Numerous drops uncontrolled. RECORD OF LOSSES July 23 July 24 July 25 Total inflow at intake in second feet 44.40 41.71 42.28 Total diverted from system, second feet 27.24 27.43 2'). 87 Total loss in system second feet 17.16 14.28 12.41 Loss in per cent of inflow 38.60% 34.20% 29.40% Average loss: 34.2%. Weather conditions: hot and sunshine. Length of canals and laterals studied: 21.3. Irrigable acres under canal: 4,785. Required capacity at intake: (duty of water 80 acres to 1 sec. ft. ) 60 sec. ft. Estimated safe capacity at intake, 1914 : 60 sec. ft. Maximum recorded discharge, 1914 : 53.4 sec. ft. LATERAL A, CENTRAL OREGON CANAL (Drop at upper end) REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 37 Comment: This lateral system is the largest under the C. O. Canal. The main lateral is constructed with a considerable excess wetted area. It runs close to Pilot Butte and evidently construction work on the canal opened up many sink holes, the worst of which had been sealed up. These sink holes undoubtedly make losses greater. LATERAL D Location: Sections 21, 22, 27, 32, 33, T. 17 S., R. 13 E.; Section 4, T. 18 S., R. 13 E. Condition: Very little silt. Weeds growing in many places. RECORD OF LOSSES July 29, 1914 July 30 July 31 Total inflow at intake in second feet 4.00 4 92 4 92 Total diverted from system, second feet 2.39 3.39 3 30 Total loss in second feet . 1 61 1 53 1 62 Total loss in per cent of inflow 40.3 % 31 1 % 32 9 % Average loss: 34.5%. Weather conditions: sunshine. Length of laterals: 5.7 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 1,362. Required capacity at intake: 17 sec. ft. Estimated safe capacity at intake: 8 sec. ft. Maximum recorded discharge, 1914: 5.30. Comment: Excess wetted area is characteristic of this lateral system. The canal is built much too wide for the amount of water to be carried. About one-half mile of low banks just below intake limited the capacity to less than is required for the lands it serves, which will undoubtedly be repaired. LATERAL D, CENTRAL OREGON CANAL (Wide, shallow canal causing excessive seepage) 38 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT LATERAL H Location: Sees. 27, 28, 32, 33, T. 17 S., R. 14 E. W. M.; Sees. 5, 8, T. 18 S., R. 14 E W. M. Condition: In good shape except towards lower end, where some silt and weeds occur. Excess wetted area. RECORD OF LOSSES August 12 August 13 Inflow at intake in second feet 7.39 7.72 Diversions from system in second feet 5.12 5.06 Loss in system in second feet 2.27 2.66 Loss in per cent of inflow 30.80% 34.40% Average loss: 32.6%. Weather conditions: sunshine. Length of laterals studied: 4.4 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 2,884. Required capacity at intake: 36.0 second feet. Maximum recorded discharge, 1914: 9.82 second feet. Comment: This lateral takes out of Central Oregon Canal about 16-mile post, and joins it again at 22-mile post. It was at one time thought, since the canal is built largely oversize, that if it might be used as the main canal instead of the present portion of the Central Oregon, some loss might be eliminated. The result of our studies shows, however: 1st. That losses in Lateral H are .63 feet per square foot of wetted area per 24 hours. Losses in Central Oregon Canal between intake of H and outlet of H are 0.79 feet. (Determination made August 20.) 2d. That it will be necessary to do considerable work on Lateral H, that it may carry the increased amount of water. Certain low banks exist which would allow excess water area and hence greater losses. It is estimated by the writer that the same money spent on the Central Oregon Canal would produce more satisfactory results. LATERAL I Location: Sections 2, 10, 11, 13, 14, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 34, 35, T. 17 S., R. 14 E.; Sections 2, 3, T. 18 S., R. 14 E. Condition: Running over its safe capacity; silted badly in places. RECORD OF LOSSES August 8 August 10 Inflow, in second feet, at intake 44.18 44 18 Diversions outflow, in second feet, from system Loss in second feet 33.63 10 55 35.24 8 94 Loss in per cent of inflow 23 90% 20 20% Average loss: 22%. "Weather conditions: sunshine. Length of laterals studied: 12 miles. Irrigable acres under canal: 4,181. Required capacity at intake: 52. Estimated safe capacity at intake: 40. Maximum recorded discharge, 1914: 47.05. Comment: Out of the 4,181 irrigable acres under the canal, only about 1,700 acres were cultivated last year. Our measurements show that when 44.18 second feet is flowing at the intake the delivery capacity of the canal system is about 35 second feet, of which 2 second feet is wasted at the ends of the laterals, leaving 33 second feet diverted to the farmers. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 39 This should be sufficient for 3,300 acres, but due to loss in farmers' ditches and wasteful methods of using the water, also on account of the different character of the soil at different places under the system, which necessitates the use of a larger amount of water for some of the land under the canal, it appears to be sufficient for only about 1,700 acres. Should this condition of affairs remain unchanged until 3,400 acres are in cultivation, 84 second feet of water inflow, or over twice the present capacity of the canal, would be required. LATERAL P Location: Sections 1, 7, 12, 18, T. 15 S., R. 14 E. W. M. Condition: Hardpan and rock subsoil; some silt in upper end. RECORD OP LOSSES August 18 August 19 Inflow at intake, in second feet 7.83 7.83 Diversions, in second feet 7.47 7.50 Loss, in second feet 0.36 .33 Loss, in per cent of inflow 4.60% 4.20% Average loss: 4.4%. Weather conditions: bright sunshine. Length of laterals studied: 2.9. Irrigable acres under canal: 1,255. Required capacity at intake: 16 second feet. Estimated safe capacity at intake: 16 second feet. Maximum recorded discharge in 1914 : 8.62 second feet. Comment: This lateral is located in the Powell Butte District, which district seems to be generally underlain with an impervious stratum, and measurements indicate that losses are low in this region. Summary The following table summarizes the results of studies on the lateral systems. ii II *i5 Lateral system I!| aS.S ! fe!B Condition |.s-s r as * 3000 DO A 34.2 21.3 60 Excess wetted area, sinks and uncontrolled drops. D 34.5 5.7 17 Excess wetted area, low banks, near intake. H . 32.6 4.4 36 Excess wetted area. 1 ... 22.0 12.0 52 Main canal built too small. P 4.4 2.9 16 In Powell Butte district, in good shape except in a few places having low banks. 40 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT The following table is given to show the losses as affected by the character of material through which the canal is excavated: LOSSES ON LATERALS OF CENTRAL OREGON CANAL Is 71 ift 5S 9*411 J2, tt a 1^2 fl "*"* No. lateral fill Its 1 Hi a *a *a.2 Material through which laterals run J41 1 II jm |dlr 1 I 44.18 6.50 2.30 .99 50% volcanic ash soil, 30% gravel, 18% clayey ash, 2% rock. 2 A . 42.80 6.00 2.50 1.20 60% sandy ash, 40% rock. 3 C. O... 32.64 1907 9.00 .84 .33 4 13 16.90 2.60 3.60 .76 50% earth, 30% gravel, 18% volcanic ash with clay, 2% rock. 5 AlO . 12.00 5.20 4.65 .92 6 Al .... 9.40 4.00 4.93 .77 95% earth, 5% rock. 7 P 7.83 2.90 1.55 .22 40% rock, 30% hardpan, 30% earth. 8 H .. 7.56 4.40 7.40 .63 95% earth, 5% rock. 9 AT .... 5.05 2.50 5.30 1.14 90% earth, 10% rock. 10 D 4.61 4.50 5.75 .35 90% earth, 10% rock. 11 AlO-5 3.21 .90 19.90 2.60 Wetted area, approximate. 12 13-4 .. 3.18 .65 37.70 3.30 70% gravel, 30% earth. 13 A13 .. 2.80 1.50 17.50 1.64 14 AlO-8 1.87 .50 to .70 32.80 1.06 15 12 1.19 .70 32.50 .68 50% earth, 50% rock. 16 13-1 .. 1.16 .80 55.00 2.22 80% gravel, 20%. earth. 17 A2 .... 1.05 .23 40.00 1.52 80% sand ash soil. 20% rock. 18 D6 .... .70 .50 56.40 1.15 95% sandy ash soil, 5% rock. 19 Dio .. .60 .70 47.70 1.04 90% earth, 10% rock. FARMERS' DITCHES Different surveys and observations on farms scattered throughout the project show that the length of ditches necessary to carry the water from the company's point of delivery down to the farmers' land .and over it is in many places more than a mile. It has been determined that in small ditches, such as used by farmers, the losses are about 40% per mile. In some cases the loss is greater, and in some cases less. It will be reason- able to assume then that 40% of the water diverted to the farmer is lost before he can use it to advantage on his crops. Mr. E. G. Hopson, in his article on the Economic Aspect of Seepage Loss, published in the Proceedings of American Society of Civil Engin- eers, says: "It has been estimated that seepage losses in the farmers' ditches on many projects are not less than 50% of the losses in the main canal and lateral systems." The loss of 40% in farmers' laterals as assumed by the writer in these studies is thus seen to be low rather than high. EVAPORATION There seems to have been an idea in the minds of some persons interested in irrigation problems of Oregon that evaporation plays a large part in the losses on this project. Although this idea is entirely contrary to all data and conclusions of other investi- gators of this matter, it was decided to carry on sufficient investigations to determine whether evaporation was higher than usual. Accordingly, an evaporation tank was constructed and installed at the ranch of A. O. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 41 Walker of Alfalfa. The tank was circular, two feet in diameter and twelve inches deep and constructed of galvanized iron. The results obtained from this tank may be high due to heat reflection from the sides of the tank tending to increase evaporation above normal. The tank was installed in a pool of quiet water just above Mr. Walker's north weir. Records were kept from May 13 to August 26, inclusive, a total of 105 days. Rainfall was allowed for in figures given below: EVAPORATION IN INCHES ON C. O. I. CO. PROJECT, 1914 May 13-31 June July August 1-26 Total for 105 days 3.94 8.81 6.12 5.63 24.50 The following record shows evaporation in inches for Klamath River, near Keno, Oregon, 120 miles south of Bend, and is a typical evaporation record for an irrigated district. Altitude, 4,000 feet. Taken from Water Supply Paper 344, page 86: MEAN OF SIX YEARS' RECORD May June July August Total for 123 days 4.14 5.16 6M4 6.46 22.20 These records are here compared to show the small difference between the evaporation on this project and a standard record for this State. Taking the maximum of 8.8 inches in June, we have a maximum daily rate of .293 inches. The mean transmission loss in depth per day over wetted area is about 1.1 feet on this project. The proportion of evaporation losses to transmission losses on this project is, therefore, .0244 ( .293 inches reduced to feet) _ SUMMARY OF LOSSES Pilot Butte System To show the losses on the entire Pilot Butte Canal system, the follow- ing table is presented, based on the data previously given. The main canal losses are measured directly from the river diversions and include North Canal losses down to 25.5-mile post, where the canal becomes small enough to be considered a large lateral. Lateral losses are taken as 30% of the amount diverted from main canal and losses after leaving the lateral system are estimated at 40% for farmers' ditches. SUMMARY OF LOSS DETERMINATIONS ON THE PILOT BUTTE CANAL SYSTEM FROM THE RIVE'R DIVERSION TO THE FARMERS' LANDS Second feet Per cent of water diverted from river June 25 July 17 August 15 June 26 July 17 August 15 Total water diverted from Deschutes River at United States Geo- logical Survey gages.. Total water lost in main canal system 309.00 113.42 58.67 54.76 226.85 172.09 323.00 128.98 58.20 54.33 241.51 187.18 337.00 135.17 60.73 56.68 252.58 196.90 100.00 36.70 19.00 17.70 73.40 55.70 100.00 40.00 18.00 16.80 74.80 58.00 100.00 40.20 18.00 16.80 75.00 58.20 Total water lost in lat- eral system taken as 30% of that diverted from main canal Total lost in farmers' lat- erals taken as 40% of that diverted to farmer Total loss in en- tire system Loss in system for which the irrigator is not responsible . 42 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Central Oregon System On the main Central Oregon Canal the losses are directly measured to Mile Post 34, below which point the main canal is no larger than some of the large laterals on the project. Losses on lateral systems between the intake and the 34-mile post will average 30%, as seen from table. Below the 34-mile post, a loss of 15% is assumed on the following basis. The loss in the section of the Central Oregon Canal between 34-mile post and 43-mile post is 7.6% of the inflow. The loss in Lateral P is 4.4% of the inflow, and it is believed that losses in other small laterals such as N, M-5, M-3, etc., would be sufficient to make an estimate of 15% a conservative figure of the losses below 34-mile post. Taking into consideration the foregoing facts, it will be seen that the following table summarizing all losses on the system, while it shows them to be high, is certainly as low as could reasonably be expected: SUMMARY OF LOSSES ON THE CENTRAL, OREGON CANAL SYSTEM FROM RIVER DIVERSION TO FARMERS LAND Second feet Per cent of water diverted June 13 August 14 August 20 June 13 August 14 August 20 Total inflow diverted from the Deschutes River 313.00 81.23 63.80 2.78 66.04 213.94 147.90 330.00 82.00 65.76 4.81 71.17 223.24 152.07 333.00 79.28 67.10 4.52 72.84 223.74 150.90 100.00 26.00 20.40 90 21.10 68.40 47.30 100.00 24.80 19.90 1.30 21.60 67.60 46.00 100.00 23.80 20.10 1.40 21.90 67.20 46.70 Loss from .5 mile post to 34 mile post Loss in lateral systems above 34 mile post taken as 30% of their intake discharges Losses below 34 mile post taken as 15% of the discharge at 34 mile post Losses in farmers' lat- erals taken as 40% of the water diverted to the farmer Total losses in entire system Loss in system for which the irrigator is not responsible Seepage Conditions on Entire System The preceding data show that losses are heaviest on the main canals, laterals and farmers' ditches in the order stated. In the case of the main Central Oregon Canal and North Canal, which has a large per cent of rock surface in contact with the water, it is believed that seams and cracks in the rock are responsible for the larger part of the loss. On the Pilot Butte Canal the high losses are also attributed to the large excess wetted area. Since rock is relatively so close to the surface over a large part of the segregation, the tendency has been to construct wide, shallow canals rather than deep ones, thus avoiding expensive rock excavation. The result has been that canals were constructed with a large excess water area and since seepage and evaporation are proportional to wetted area REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 43 and water surface area, the losses are high. Some of the lateral systems, however, were designed to serve a greater area of land than they are ultimately to serve, and hence they are wider than they should be. This is true particularly of the laterals diverting in the first 20 miles of the Central Oregon Canal. Another cause of losses is that the numerous drops on the canals have not been properly constructed, as in most instances the water is allowed to tumble down over the rock as best it can between the canal grade lines. Thus seams and cracks and sink holes have a splendid oppor- tunity to take water. The logical remedy for the high losses would be to first reduce the excess wetted area; second, search the canal bottom in the rock section for leaks, and when found, close them in a permanent manner with cement; and third, to provide and construct drop structures. . 2.95 acfr / DeS/verecJ to farmer-, /. 77 ac. ft Aw/'/ab/e for Crops 32. 3 X /./8ac.ff: Loss />? formers 2i.t%p/fc/7es /.I7ac.ft. Loss //? Lofera/s ZI.4-% /.36oc ft Loss m Ma/rt Cane/ Z48%> CENTRAL //? Cono/ System 4-6.2% OREGON CANAL 3.l9ac. ff. De//vered fo Farmer \ /.9lac ft Available for Crops 2S.6& /.230-cft Loss //? farmers /7./%D/fches /.370c.ft Loss />? Latera/s /e.tt 3.92 ac ft Loss in Ma/'r? Car?o/s 39.0% PILOT BUTTE Trans mis si or? Loss />7 Car?a/ System Fig. 5. DISTRIBUTION OF WATER DIVERTED AT INTAKE (In acre feet per acre of irrigated land) A study was made on the Pilot Butte Canal system to see what possible reduction in seepage losses would result from the carrying out of such a policy of loss reductions. All canals and laterals were redesigned with a view to reducing excess wetted area, and it was assumed that the rate of normal seepage loss would be 1 foot per square foot of wetted area per 24 hours. It was found that losses would then amount to 40% of the inflow. A similar condition on the Central Oregon Canal would also reduce the losses on this system to even less than 40%, but to obtain such would practically necessitate the reconstruction of some of the main lateral systems at a heavy cost, which would not be the case under the Pilot Butte Canal. 44 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT COMPARISON OF RESULTS WITH OTHER DATA From the following table the losses on the combined systems of the Pilot Butte and Central Oregon canals are compared with the recorded losses on other projects. The figures on other projects are taken from Mr. Hopson's article in the Transactions of American Society of Civil Engineers, mentioned under head of Losses in Farmers' Ditches. LOSSES IN PER CENT OF WATER DIVERTED FROM RIVER Project Canal Farmers' ditches Total *Umatilla 32 00 15 00 47 Truckee-Carson .. 41 00 15 00 56 "Orland 23 00 10 00 33 Klamath - 48 00 15 00 63 Tieton 24 00 8 00 3 Sunnyside 27 00 7 00 4 Central Oregon Project 51 70 19 30 71 * Reservoir losses in Umatilla and Orland projects are eliminated in these figures. It must be remembered that the figures for loss in farmers' ditches in reclamation projects are the results of private opinion and not as a result of actual measurements, while the figures given for the Central Oregon Project are based on the result of actual measurements on such ditches. To still further compare the results obtained the following table is given: Canals carrying 100 sec. ft. or more Canals carrying less than 100 sec. ft. "Loss of Water in and Contracting, by P. M. Fogg . Irrigation June 24, Systems," Eng. 1914, page 712, .95^ oer mile 6.02^ ner mile Central Oregon Irrigation Company Project ] 1.71% per mile ; 11.15% per mile I i The results of the measurements of seepage show this to be a serious problem on this project. The above comparisons show that it is greater than is experienced on many of the more important projects of the Northwest. The two main causes for this loss are as follows: 1. The canals were so located as to take advantage, wherever possible, of natural draws or gullies, with the result that the sections were such as to cause large wetted areas. No impervious linings were used, except on the North Canal, where the concrete is rough, and considerably checked. (See Bulletin 126, U. S. Dept. Agriculture, page 43.) Natural drops were used when possible and the porous seamy rock of the region thus diverts large amounts of water through leakage. These conditions, whose results are augmented by the effects of changes of irrigation plans after construction of the original canals, are large responsible for the high losses. 2. The geological formations of the country are mainly volcanic, pro- ducing a rich soil for raising crops, but also, in this instance, being responsible for the underground caves, subterranean channels and seamy rock which naturally produce high losses unless canal and lateral con- struction is especially provided against it. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 45 LATERAL A-10, CENTRAL OREGON CANAL (Flume over rock cavity) REMEDIES FOR LOSSES As seen from the above discussion, the problem of reducing losses naturally resolves itself into reducing excess area and cementing leaks. The amount of reduction in losses which can be accomplished by this method depends on the amount and character of work done, but it is estimated that by this means the losses can, at least, be held to 40% without excessive expense. To reduce losses below 40% it may be necessary in some places to resort to concrete lining, puddling of banks, and other expedients which will prove to be quite expensive. The exact cost of this work can only be estimated after experimental work has been done to determine just what method will be most economical and efficient. 46 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT WEATHER CONDITIONS The season of 1914 was notable for the low precipitation. The records of the U. S. Weather Bureau for Bend show only about 2.68 inches of precipitation from January to April, inclusive, while the normal for that period is about 7.5 inches. During the irrigation season of May, June, July and August the rainfall amounted to 2.57 inches, while normally it should be about 3.22 inches. This deficiency of moisture before and during the irrigation season undoubtedly made it necessary to use more water for irrigation purposes than would be advisable to use under normal conditions. The following- table is taken from monthly climatological data published by the U. S. Weather Bureau, being average of records for Bend and Powell Butte for 1914. TEMPERATURE Mean Maximum Minimum Precipita- tioninches May 51 6 90 19 84 June 57 93 22 88 July 66 98 30 16 August 64 2 100 3TT Trace REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 47 CHOP REPORT AND CENSUS REPORT A census of crops, stock, people, and a valuation of property was made on special forms prepared by this office, in cooperation with Mr. C. L. McCauley, water superintendent on the project. Kind of Crop and Acreage: Alfalfa, 7,351; clover, 2,249.5; grain, 6,003.5; potatoes, 757; orchard, 221.5; garden, 612; miscellaneous, 524.5; total acres in crop, 17,719. Stock Census: Beef cattle, 1,209; dairy cows, 1,004; horses, 1,174; swine, 5,589; sheep, 443. Total population,- 1,398, not including population in towns and cities, or residents on homesteads and desert claims. Total value of farms cleared, partly cleared, or under cultivation by irrigation, $2,167,520.00. Total value per capita, $1,550.00. Total number of farms investigated, 645. (Includes four very large ranches, such as Pilot Butte, Davenport-Stanley, etc.) Total irrigable acres reported on, 30,692. Average size of farms, 47.6 acres. Average size of small farms, 41.6 acres. Total taken up by roads and buildings, 774 irrigable acres. Total area of lands cleared but not cultivated, 4,322 acres. The valuation here given represents as far as possible no speculative value, such as is due to location near a town. The basis of the valuation was the reclamation lien fixed on uncleared irrigable land with water right, which is $40 per acre. These figures are therefore low, but represent as far as possible the value of the land as produced by the industry of the settler. The total irrigable acres reported on are the irrigable lands that the company recognizes as contracted for, and hence the actual irrigable acres may be in excess of this figure. PERCENTAGE OF CLEARED LAND NOT IN CULTIVATION In any irrigation project a certain portion of the land under a canal system will not be irrigated because it is taken up by roads, houses, buildings, rights of way, etc. Engineers have been accustomed to make an allowance for this unusable land in designing irrigation systems. The amount of this allowance varies greatly with conditions, and no figure should be taken from one part of the country and applied to another without a careful study of the conditions which exist where the figure was determined and where it is to be applied. For instance, it has been reported that in India, where irrigation has been practised for hundreds of years, 20% of the land under the canals are found to be taken up by roads, towns, buildings, etc. In the earlier development of irrigation in the United States it was estimated that 20% would apply to conditions in the West. Careful investigations have shown that this figure cannot so be applied except under unusual conditions. On the Central Oregon Project, waste lands, towns and rights of way were eliminated from the lands considered under the canals. The amount of waste lands on this project is such as to make strong inducement for 48 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT farmers to use this waste land for buildings, yards, etc. Irrigable lands costing $40 per acre for water rights, and 80 cents per year for main- tenance would certainly not customarily be used to put buildings and yards on where there is available waste land costing $2.50 per acre which may be used for this purpose. Don H. Bark, who has thoroughly investigated this matter for the Department of Agriculture, finds, after studying a large area in Idaho, that the average project has only about 8.06% of the lands lying idle. This percentage is divided as follows: 2.2% taken up by corrals, barns, stock yards, fence rows, building sites and high land; 5.86% in sloughs, creeks, canals, county roads, railroad rights of way and miscellaneous. The data were collected over an area of some 16,000 acres of land, and are considered typical of Idaho projects. Mr. Bark says that in a highly developed section the amount of fallow lands would not exceed 2.5% of the total irrigable lands. The 1914 census of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company's Project shows that about 2.5% of the irrigable land under the census is taken up by roads and buildings, and about 14% taken up by lands which have been cleared up for the next year's cultivation, cleared land on abandoned ranches and lands not irrigated but cleared. As the project grows older this percentage will undoubtedly become almost negligible. The contract between the settler and the company calls for a delivery of 1.8 acre feet per acre for whatever irrigable acres there may be on the land; contracts since 1907 naming the amount of irrigable acres. Since it is difficult for the average farmer to use small quantities of water, even should he have the skill, it is natural to suppose that he will do as he has already done, viz., demand all the water his contract calls for, regardless of the amount of land he may have lying fallow or taken up in any way such that it is not actually irrigated. And especially will he do this in a dry year, when 1.8 acre feet per acre appears to him to be inadequate. Therefore, in view of the above facts, and in view of the unsatisfactory condition of the canals, it is not considered proper to make an allowance of 10% for non-irrigated lands and certainly not 20%. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 49 DUTY OF WATER Moisture is necessary for raising of agricultural crops. To supply any deficiency in moisture that crops may be raised profitably to the farmer and to do this work efficiently and at the proper time is the ideal of irrigation practice. That amount of water per acre of land necessary to make up any deficiency in crop requirements of moisture, is expressed in the phrase, "Duty of 'Water." The duty is commonly expressed as acre fe.et per acre, or as acres per second foot. Aside from the /"human element," having to do with the skill and intelligence of the farmer or water user, the most important factor affecting the water duty in arid regions is the character of the soil and subsoil. Climatic conditions, character of crops, fertility of soil and the aver- age intelligence of farmers are more or less constant factors within the extremes of a large project. Once determined they vary but little between different sections in the same project. The character of the soil and subsoil, however, does vary within wide limits, and it is almost impossible to adopt a uniform quantity of water which is best for all lands in a large project. No better instance could hardly be found to illustrate this point than the conditions on the Central Oregon Irrigation Company's project. Lands lying in what is known as the Powell Butte District require less water than do most any other lands in the project. The soil of that district appears to have a fine loamy texture with a relatively tight substratum. Some lands lying in the Alfalfa district, near Bend and near Red- mond, need more water than do those of the Powell Butte district, and there will be found a tract like that used as an experimental farm near Redmond, where soil conditions approach those of the Powell Butte district, and where, under the expert management of a specialist, much less water than 1.8 acre feet per acre is required. Prior to October 10, 1905, no duty of water had been fixed for this project by the State Land Board. However, the company had inserted in its Contract Form No. 1, a specification of 1 second foot to 160 acres between April 1 and November 1. As this was not deemed sufficient by the State Engineer, and the company's contract provided that all rules and regulations with respect to water must be approved by the Land Board, the then State Land Board refused to approve this contract form. The minutes of the State Land Board dated October 10, 1905, with reference to duty of water, read as follows: "Now comes on to be considered the application of the Deschutes Irrigation & Power Company for a List for Patent for 77,950.87 acres of land included in the segregation of the Pilot Butte Development Com- pany, and in order that the proper officers of the State may be able to make the certificates of reclamation as required by the rules and regula- tions of the Secretary of the Interior so that patent may issue, it is necessary that the board, at this time, fix and determine the duty of water for the land in this project, which, in the absence of any informa- tion concerning the irrigation of lands in the vicinity of the lands included in said list, the board at this time is unable to do with any degree of 50 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT certainty. However, it appearing to the board that the estimated quan- tity of water made by the U. S. Reclamation Service for the Klamath Proj- ect is one second foot of water for 150 acres and that the ditch companies in the Yakima country furnish only one second foot of water for 160 acres, while in Idaho the quantity ranges from one second foot of water for from 60 to 80 acres of land, it is the opinion of the board at this time that one second foot of water is sufficient to irrigate and reclaim 100 acres of land in this segregation within the meaning of the law, and this amount is hereby fixed and determined by the board as the proper and reason- able duty of water for this project for the purpose only of establishing a basis for the guidance of the Governor and State Engineer in certify- ing the "List for Patent," and they are hereby requested if they find that the capacity of the headworks, flumes and ditches of the Deschutes Irrigation & Power Company is sufficient to convey this quantity of water and in other respects in compliance with the law to make the proper certificate to said 'List for Patent.' " Later the company incorporated this duty in the rules and regulations, which were duly approved by the State Land Board, as follows: "(2) The irrigation season shall be from April 1 to November 1 of each year, and during the period of maximum use from May 23 to August 20 (90 days) of each year the company shall deliver to each settler, his heirs, personal representative or assigns owning lands reclaimed by contract with the State of Oregon (for convenience herein- after called the settler) an amount of water measured at the point of delivery to his land, which will cover each acre of irrigable land to a depth of one and eight-tenths feet (1.8). If the above supply of water is found to be in excess of that required during the period of maximum use, or insufficient to raise ordinary agricultural crops, it can be changed with the approval of the State Land Board to conform with the recom- mendations of the Chief of Irrigation Investigations of the U. S. Depart- ment of Agriculture." On November 2, 1905, this rule among others was adopted by the State Land Board, and in 1907 it was included as part of the contract between the settler and the company which was approved by the board. This is the only instance in the records of the State Land Board or Desert Land Board where the duty of water was fixed by the board. The first duty of water of one second foot to 160 acres was fixed by the company without the approval of the board. Since 1905 many experiments have been made to determine the proper duty of water, both in Oregon and in other states. Most noteworthy of these investigations is that carried on by Don H. Bark in Idaho for the Department of Agriculture in cooperation with the State of Idaho. The character of the soil, elevation and general condition of the lands under Mr. Bark's investigations are very similar to those under the Central Oregon Project, and the result of his work should throw some light on what should be the proper duty of water here. Since the period of maximum use under consideration is 90 days it is necessary to interpolate Mr. Bark's results to the same basis in order to apply them to this project. The following table is compiled from Mr. Bark's report: Duty of water obtained by Don Bark for the Department of Agricultural, on Idaho REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 51 lands similar in character and climatic condition to Central Oregon Project. Average yearly precipitation is about twelve inches, of which about three inches fall in the four summer months. SS22 ifl w gi Crop gp J& fi S-3 & fcl ** ^ a^-S Character of poll "c*c8 oo "c ^ cfl cS 3C 3 >;o H' 5 55 Alfalfa 2.50 1.83 46 3 IV^eclium clav and sandv loam soil. Grain 1.45 1.337 122 3 IVXcdiuni clav and sindv loam soil. Alfalfa 6.815 5.073 17 2 Porous sandv and gravelly soil. Grain 3.09 3.031 30 2 Porous sandv and gravelly soil. The weighted mean of the above figures gives a 90-day water duty of 2.705 acre feet for alfalfa, and 1.676 acre feet for grain. Since alfalfa and grain are about equally proportioned in the average projects under discussion, a fair average would be 2.191, or, roughly, 2.2 acre feet per acre. According to the above investigation it would appear that 2.2 acre feet is the proper duty where the ratio of grain to alfalfa is equal and where the ratio of porous sandy soil is as approx- imately 47 to 215. Since the exact area of the fields is not known it is impossible to give exact figures, but it is sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes to say that the duty of water of 2.2 acre feet would be safe to apply to an area 22% of which is a porous sandy loam and gravelly soil. A very careful study of the duty of water has been made by Prof. W. L. Powers, in charge of irrigation and drainage work of the Oregon Experiment Station. Prof. Powers had direct charge of the work in 1912 on the Redmond Irrigation Experiment Farm, and his results, pub- lished in Bulletin No. 117 of the Oregon Agricultural College, reveal the possibilities of scientific knowledge applied to irrigation practice. It is indeed unfortunate that Prof. Powers could not have extended his work over a period of years, so that the effect of yearly climatic differences might be ascertained; and also it would have been of the greatest value if he could have carried on his experiments on several different tracts of land so as to note the effect of the different kinds of soil on the duty. The duty of water obtained by Prof. Powers was 1.041 acre feet per acre, and in applying this to the Central Oregon Project the following conditions must be taken into consideration: 1st. The precipitation for 1912 was above normal and as seen in the diagram the use of water per acre was the lowest in four years. 2d. Crops were very well diversified, tending to a minimum need of water. 3d. Unusual skill was used in applying water. Soil moisture deter- minations were made, thus the amount of residual soil moisture was known. Resources, financial and otherwise, which are not as yet avail- able to the average farmer were available for use on this farm. 52 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 4th. This duty of water was obtained on one type of land alone, and it is by no means certain that this is the average type. The writer has seen by far the larger portion of the lands in the segregation and his opinion is that this experimental farm is better than the average in character of both soil and subsoil. 5th. The maximum crop yield for the least water is the economic use of water, but not of necessity the economic duty of water. In determining the duty for any project the cost of land and water, cost of clearing and cultivation, cost of producing crops, and the value of crops must be taken into consideration, as well as the amount of water which will produce the maximum yield. It is evident that to use only so much water as will produce the maximum yield per acre may entail 6.SJ 627, 1911 1912 1913 1914 Contract Duty of Wafer of /ntoke r- ofMoJn Cona/ - / second -foot to 7 O acres Excess Use and Losses Fig. 6. WATER DIVERTED AT CANAL INTAKES (Acre feet per acre of irrigated land) much expense for leveling land, handling water, cultivation of crops, which would not be fully offset by the increased return from the increased crop, while, on the other hand, less expensive methods using more water, even with the decreased yield would show a substantial profit to the farmer. 6th. Even as one year's stream measurements are of little value unless continued over a period of years, so is the determination of the duty of water for one year only of small value. Mr. Bark's experiments show in three years a variation in duty of water of from 8.7 per cent below to 11 per cent above the mean, and a maximum variation of 29 per cent from the minimum duty. 7th. In determining this duty the water was measured at the point of use and arbitrary allowances were made for losses. On this project the water is required to be delivered within one-half mile of the lands, and hence ditch losses, which are heavy in this section, would tend to increase the water requirements at the company's delivery. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 53 The year 1912 was a year of abundant precipitation and unusually low use of water. In 1911 the diversion use of water was 6.51 or 30% greater. To take even Prof. Powers' duty of 1.04 acre feet in 90 days, and increase it 30 per cent for difference in precipitation from the normal, and make an allowance of 30 per cent of the amount delivered at company's delivery for losses where conditions are favorable, we have a duty which in dry years may possibly be obtained by skilled farmers on the best 'of lands, as follows: Acre feet in 90 days Professor Powers' duty for 1912 1.041 30% for climatic difference between 1911 and 1912 .31 Losses between company's delivery and on farmers' land equals 30% of the amount delivered -58 Total duty for dry year 1.93 Assuming a 10% deviation from the mean duty for average years, it would appear that 1.74 acre feet would be the proper duty for this segregation, provided all lands were like that of the Redmond farm and all farmers had developed a great degree of skill in the economic handling of water. Such conditions are practically out of the question and it is necessary that the problem be approached from a more practical standpoint. In 1914 the attempt was made to ascertain just what the actual duty of water was during the 90-day period on this segregation. Accord- ingly three farmers volunteered their services to keep records of water diverted on their farms and to continue their ordinary use of water in their own way and to use neither more nor less than they were accustomed to use. Cippoletti weirs were installed either on the farmer's land or as near to it as possible, so as to measure all the water coming on the land. Conditions did not permit of controlling the waste water, but the farmers were cautioned about allowing waste water to run off their lands, and observations during the season showed that on these particular tracts but little water was wasted. Farm No. 1 is located at Alfalfa, Oregon, and owned by Mr. A. O. Walker. Water is supplied through Lateral I system of the Central Oregon Canal. Two weirs were necessary to measure all the water on the place. This farm is representative of the best in the segregations. Buildings are in good shape, ditches are well located, the land is slightly rolling, and conditions are favorable for an economical use of water. Mr. A. E. Lovett, County Agriculturist and Agent of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, rendered valuable assistance to the writer by reporting the character of soil and subsoil on these farms. He reports: "I find the soil on this farm uniform in texture and fairly uniform in depth. It is composed of a sandy loam, generally with a coarse sandy subsoil and underlaid with about four inches of hardpan or ash cement. The depth varies from 12 to 38 inches and averages about 18 inches. . . . . Results obtained in your water measurements may be taken as results representative for that section." Mr. Walker is the only farmer of the three who appeared satisfied with the amount of water received, which amounted to 3.19 acre feet per acre irrigated during the 90-day season. 54 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Farm No. 2 is near Redmond, and is owned by F. A. Kennard. This farm required but one weir, which towards the end of the season became silted and therefore measurements taken at that time are slightly low. Mr. -Lovett finds that the soil is quite variable. The texture varies from a fine sand to a fine sandy loam with a trace of pumice in the subsoil. The surface soil is about 16 to 65 inches deep, and the farm is an exceptional one, although many of the same nature may be found. A very large amount of water was used on the place, being 5.70 acre feet per acre of land irrigated in the 90-day period. Mr. Kennard claims that this amount of water was not sufficient in- 1914, but it appears that the greatest need is for an increased head of water on a rotation system. It is believed that a large head of water delivered at the proper time will result in the more economical use even in a dry year requiring less water than the 5.70 acre feet delivered this year. Farm No. 3 belongs to Mr. J. T. Ledbetter, and is located under the Pilot Butte Canal on the Deschutes River near Cline Falls. This farm is excellently laid out and is evidently managed by a man of experience in irrigation. Mr. Lovett reports the soil to be fairly uniform in depth and texture and a medium sandy loam. The fields are in excellent shape and so located that definite results can be obtained from studies of the use of water. Mr. Ledbetter writes that the lack of a sufficiently large head of water at proper times made results of the season very unsatis- factory, causing some of his young alfalfa to die. He used on his tract 2.44 acre feet per acre during the 90-day irrigation season. The table on the following page is a record of the water used on these three farms. In 1912, Mr. H. P. Farmer, under the direction of Dr. Samuel Fortier of the Department of Agriculture Experiment Stations, carried on cer- tain preliminary studies for the duty of water on the Central Oregon Project. The results of this work have not yet been made public, but it may be said that nothing in them conflicts with the deductions here drawn for the duty of water on this project. Fully as important as the total seasonal use of water is the maximum monthly use. It is a recognized fact that the prime essential in an irrigation project is that it should deliver not only sufficient total amount of water, but also in the proper time. Flooding the lands in May or August will not relieve a shortage in July. This was clearly proven in 1913, during the shortage occurring in July. July is the month when the largest percentage of water is used, and it is evident that the demand of this month determines the required capacity of the various canals, regardless whether the total duty is 1.5 acre feet or 2.0 acre feet in season. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 55 It f "<>j * O <M <M ^ ^x o c SSS x w i| rt b o 56 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT The table below summarizes all the data so far discussed : Source of data ||| g 3*0 & ll Remarks Duty of water for average year on best land, based on Prof. Powers' studies, delivered at company's weirs 1.74 2.20 2.82 1.80 2.15 1.80 3.03 41.1 39.5 34.8 35.3 37.3 33.3 .715 .850 .980 .635 .80 .60 1.03 Includes 30% for losses in farmers' ditches. Diversi- fied crops. Duty applies to 78% clay and sandy loam soils, 22% ; gravelly soils; 50% alfalfa, 50% grain. Average use on whole pro- ject as computed from diver- sion records. Don H. Bark's Idaho inves- tigations 1914 records (mean of two farms Contract duty proportioned according to mean of three years' records Mean of above Settlers' contract Actual use in 1914 The figures here given are not conclusive, but they clearly indicate that the contract duty of 1.8 acre feet per acre in 90 days is not too much water for the proper reclamation of the lands on this project. Also, it is evident that the maximum monthly derpand of .60 acre feet per acre, for which the system is designed, is as low as can be reasonably expected. In order to determine absolutely the proper duty of water measure- ments should be made covering a period of three or four years on 60 or 70 farms well distributed throughout the segregation. Thus the effect of weather and difference in character of soil may be noted. These" studies should be made under the direction of an agricultural expert who could determine the best methods of handling water and many other such things which would be of the greatest service to both the company and the farmer. As the project becomes more settled and irrigators become more skillful in handling water it is reasonable to suppose the farmer will use water more economically than he does now. Prof. Powers' studies above mentioned, would indicate that doubtless 1.8 acre feet per acre in 90 days might be sufficient water when all irrigable lands in the project will have been irrigated and under cultivation. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 57 ADEQUACY OF SYSTEM GENERAL No attempt is made in this report to interpret the contract between the settler and the irrigation company or the irrigation company and the State. By the adequacy of the canal system, as considered in this report, is meant its ability to deliver 1.8 acre feet per acre in 90 days on the lands listed as below: Under the Pilot Butte Canal 21,000 irrigable acres. Under the Central Oregon Canal 37,000 irrigable acres. These figures include the so-called excess acres. Of the 37,000 acres under the Central Oregon Canal, 8,000 acres in the Powell Butte District were planned to be served by an extension of the North Canal. The estimates for the completion of the North Canal range from $500,000 to $1,000,000, of which from $150,000 to $200,000 is necessary for the construction of the main North Canal to its connection with the Central Oregon Canal. It also appears that the company has had at least the customary difficulty experienced in late years by irrigation projects in obtaining money for construction work, and only through the release of notes by the Desert Land Board was it able to raise $14,000 to finance a small amount of enlargement work on the Central Oregon Canal. All notes originally deposited with the State by the company to insure the construction of canals have been returned to the company and the State is thereby unable to render any further financial aid in this way. Therefore, it appears that it would not be proper to assume that the North Canal will serve these 8,000 acres and so they are included as a part of those lands for which water must be provided through the Central Oregon Canal. PILOT BUTTE CANAL From the data presented under "transmission losses," it will be seen that an amount of water greater than 306 second feet has been turned into the Pilot Butte Canal, but due to heavy seepage losses 1.8 acre feet could actually be delivered to only 13,160 acres. This amount of water was used on only 7,493 acres of land cultivated in 1914. Only on account of heavy seepage losses was the canal capable of carrying this amount of water and should the losses be reduced it would necessitate greater care in maintenance than has heretofore been given to this canal that it might safely carry the 306 second feet which is supposed to care for 21,000 acres, the total irrigable area under the canal. The full amount of water which the Company expects to deliver for the irrigation of 21,000 acres under this canal was furnished during 1914 for the irrigation of only about one-third this area. From the following table it is seen that the Pilot Butte Canal is now wholly inadequate to supply 1.8 acre feet for 21,000 acres thereunder and will be inadequate even though losses were reduced to 40 per cent. 58 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT ADEQUACY OF PILOT BUTTE CANAL Actual capacity at intake in second feet 306 Actual amount of lands it can serve under present conditions with 1.8 acre feet in 90 days 13,160 Amount of lands to be served with 1.8 acre feet in 90 days 21,000 Amount of lands sold 18,913 Lands which can be served with 1.8 acre feet in 90 days with 40% losses.... 18,360 CENTRAL OREGON CANAL The capacity of the Central Oregon Canal in relation to the lands to be served is shown as follows: Actual capacity at intake in second feet 440 Actual amount of lands it can serve under present conditions with 1 8 acre feet in 90 days 23,700 Total amount of lands to be served with 1.8 acre feet 37,134 Total amount of lands sold under this system 25,573 Lands which can be served with 1.8 acre feet in 90 days with 40% losses. .. 26,400 The actual figures here given are not to be taken as exact, but are conservatively large. Sufficiency in capacity does not always exist throughout the entire system below the intake on the main canal. 30,000 r-Deficiency-? 20,000- 10,000- Central Oregon Canal Pilot Butte Canal Fig. 7. CAPACITIES OF CENTRAL OREGON AND PILOT BUTTE CANALS (Expressed as acreage to which canals can deliver 1.8 acre feet per acre in 90 days, measured at or within % mile of each 40 -acre tract) Many uncertain factors which enter into the problem such as seepage losses, variations in seasonal demand for dry years, lack of adequate maintenance, etc., preclude the advisability of allowing for irrigable land not irrigated, which is sometimes permissible upon carefully constructed projects. It must be remembered that the original plans of reclamation on which some construction was actually prosecuted were not approved by the board and in changing these plans former construction was utilized REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 59 although it did not entirely fit in with the revised plans. Nor were the plans as approved by the board and State Engineer rigidly adhered to in construction. It is, however, thoroughly feasible under proper management to attain capacities sufficient to supply lands as given in the above table without an excessive cost. The capacity of the lateral system is in general sufficient for all lands included thereunder. On account of the size of the laterals, com- pared with the main canals, the condition of maintenance has so large an effect on the capacity that it is next to impossible to state definitely the capacity of these laterals. It may be safely taken that with very few exceptions good mainte- nance would provide lateral systems with sufficient capacity. COST OF REPAIRING DEFICIENCIES IN CAPACITIES GENERAL The problem of estimating the cost of making the main canal of sufficient capacity for the lands thereunder has many difficulties. First, there is lack of detailed data regarding the cross sections and profile of the present location and condition of the main canals. Second, it is uncertain how much money will be available for maintenance and the exact amount of improved capacity resulting. Third, careful study and experiment on the ground may reveal the possibility of more economical construction. Fourth, uncertainty regarding the amount of land to be considered under the canal. An estimate will, however, be attempted and for that purpose it will be assumed: First, that 1.8 acre feet in 90 days must be delivered to the farmer within one-half mile of his land. Second, that the total land to be served is the total land sold and opened for sale, including unsold patented land and unsold lands included in lists for patent. Third, that 40 per cent losses must be allowed for. CENTRAL OREGON CANAL The total land to be served oft the above basis is approximately 33,000 acres. This requires an intake capacity for 40 per cent losses of 550 second feet. On the basis of the enlargement work done on the Central Oregon Canal in 1913 and 1914, banks could be raised sufficiently and the canal bed smoothed up for about $2,000 per mile. Although the present flume may possibly stand for a few years longer with good maintenance, it would be only proper to include the cost of a new flume. A new wooden box flume is considered here and would be the most economical structure for the location and it is assumed the flume would have a capacity of 600 second feet, would be made of fir and would have concrete pedestal footings. Such a structure properly maintained should last for 20 years and cost about $35,000.00. Cementing of leaks, repairs of intakes and headgates, riprapping banks, etc., is estimated at $500.00 per mile. 60 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Extending lateral system to provide for 3,000 acres more than what is now provided for can be estimated at $5.00 per acre only because the main laterals have already been constructed. The nature of this work being very uncertain and complicated, it is decided to allow a large percentage for engineering and contingencies. COST OF ENLARGING CENTRAL OREGON CANAL To provide for 33,000 acres, including 8,000 acres in Powell Butte Cost of raising banks 20 miles at $2,000 $ 40,000 Cost of rebuilding Pilot Butte Flume 35,000 Cost of cementing leaks, 20 miles at $500 10,000 Cost of lateral system for 3,000 acres at $5.00 15,000 $100,000 For engineering and contingencies, 25 per cent $ 25,000 Total $125.000 PILOT BUTTE CANAL The Pilot Butte Canal with the North Canal must provide for 21,000 acres. This requires 350 second feet at the intake. It will be somewhat expensive to reduce the excess losses on this system as they are extremely excessive. Accordingly, $2,000 per mile for cementing leaks, repair of intakes, headgates, etc., is made in addition to $1,000 for raising banks. The estimate for the North Canal is taken from page 27 of this report. COST OF REPAIRS PILOT BUTTE CANAL TO PROVIDE FOR 21,000 ACRES North Canal improvement $ 16,000 Raising banks, cementing leaks, repairs, improvements in capacity, etc., 18 miles at $3,000 per mile 54,000 Engineering and contingencies, 25 per cent 17,500 Total $ 87,500 SUMMARY OF COST Total, Pilot Butte Canal $ 87,500 Total, Central Oregon Canal 125,000 Total cost of repairs to put the system in good state of repair for 54,000 acres of land $212,500 Total receipts from sale of 8,500 irrigable acres at $40 $340,000 Total recepits from sale of waste acres at $2.50. 7,000 Total receipts $347,000 $347,000 Total cost of repair $212,500 Total sale cost at 10 per cent 34,700 $247,200 $247,200 Total profit $ 99,800 It thus appears that as a business policy this betterment work would be profitable to the company as well as to the settler. REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 61 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE GENERAL The operation and maintenance side of irrigation has not received the consideration rightfully due this subject. Too often has it been either slighted or utterly neglected in the construction with the result that the settler has unsatisfactory service, heavy maintenance charges and extra assessments to pay in later years. The limits of this report will not permit an exhaustive study of this matter, but it is considered pertinent to give some idea of the present cost of maintenance and operation together with what may be expected under certain revised conditions. MAINTENANCE Officials of the Central Oregon Irrigation Company have stated that from $22,000 to $25,000 per year has been collected in maintenance fees. This sum is, as shown by the following table, not sufficient for the proper handling of ordinary maintenance work, and is entirely inadequate for both maintenance and renewals. The estimates in the table are obtained from a study of the costs for maintaining similar canals on other projects, and the figures given are believed to be reasonably correct. They apply to maintenance only, and allow nothing for sinking fund for renewals of wooden structures. Nor is any estimate included covering the cost of bringing the present canals up to standard conditions. Capacity of canal Miles length Maintenance dollars per mile per year Total 50 second feet and over 55 $300.00 $16,500.00 50 second feet to 10 second feet 105 60.00 6,300.00 10 second feet or less 261 20.00 5,220.00 Total $28,020.00 "There are about 33,000 linear feet of wooden flumes and wood stave pipes, also about 1,700 weirs and intakes. The life of much of this wooden construction is relatively short. A conservatively low cost of replacements and renewals on the basis of good design as approved by the United States Reclamation Service is about $130,000. This includes the reconstruction of the main Pilot Butte flume. It is hardly probable that any policy looking forward to the reconstruction of this wooden construction work has been adopted by the company as it is evident that the reported receipts from maintenance have not been sufficient to defray a proper operation and maintenance expense. The condition of wooden structures on this project is not on the whole satisfactory. Prior to the building of the railroad to Bend, most of the wood used in construction there, was the native yellow pine. It seems to have been customary to estimate the safe working strength of this pine timber as 700 or more pounds per square inch. From tests made in the Forestry Laboratory in Seattle, Washington, results of which have not yet been published, 500 pounds or less seems a more proper allowance. 62 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT Complete tests have not as yet been published but observations of this timber, under working conditions, and conversation with timber dealers bring out the following facts : First, yellow pine timber shrinks a great deal and has a rather large percentage of knots. The presence of knots has a decidedly dele- terious effect on the strength of the wood, due to the soft wood shrinking away from the hardwood knots so that they fall out. Second, the pine wood apparently absorbs moisture more readily than does fir and, therefore, since the effect of moisture is to decrease the strength of timber this pine wood is especially susceptible to decrease of strength where it is liable to become wet as in flume construction. Third, it rots quickly when in contact with moist earth. Fourth, the strength of the good dry timber seems to have been over estimated, judging from the prevailing design in construction. Therefore, it appears from the above that if yellow pine is used for construction purposes the unit stress should not be greater than 500 pounds per square inch and where adverse conditions exist 400 pounds per square inch should be used. However, since yellow pine has a greater value than fir for some purposes its market value is but little less than fir and it is economy to use fir for structural purposes. The maintenance of the Pilot Butte flume and some of the larger flumes has been very good indeed but even good maintenance cannot altogether overcome defects in construction such as are found in these structures. The condition of smaller flumes is very poor. Many are out of line and leaky, with poor foundations and rotted timbers. Most of the construction was done between 1905 and 1907 and if an average life of 18 years is assumed, it is to be expected that within nine years from this date the entire amount of $130,000 must be spent. Therefore, a sinking fund to net $14,400 yearly to replace structures should be provided. OPERATION Outlined below is an organization plan which may be expected to operate the present system to the greatest advantage. To most economically operate any irrigation system, especially such as the Central Oregon Irrigation Project, it is necessary to collect and use more complete records than have heretofore been collected. Thus bad methods in operation are discovered and can be corrected, good methods can be developed, general efficiency of the whole system' vastly increased resulting in lower maintenance charges and better distribution of water. Therefore, in this estimate sufficient clerk hire is allowed to permit the keeping of complete records. Per year General irrigation manager $ 3,000 Water superintendent and assistant manager. Engineer in charge of maintenance and construction Engineer's assistant Bookkeeper Clerk Stenographer 1,800 1,800 1,200 1,200 1,000 850 Three permanent maintenance foremen at $1,000.. 3,000 Twenty ditch riders at $75 per month, four months 6,000 Two general utility men at $850 1,700 Auto hire, transportation 1,000 Office supplies, printing, auditing, etc 1,000 $23,550 REPORT ON CENTRAL OREGON PROJECT 63 Undoubtedly the present organization is not so elaborate or expensive, neither is it so efficient, nor does it have the lands to care for that this proposed organization is to care for. The estimated costs of present operation organization of the company is in the neighborhood of $11,000, exclusive of salaries of general manager and chief engineer, and of expense for auto hire and office and field supplies. The plan outlined above is patterned after that of the United States Reclamation Service, only lower salaries are paid. Recapitulating the costs of operation and maintenance on this project we have as below. Operation $23,500 Maintenance . 28,000 Sinking fund to replace structures 14,400 Total $65,900 called $66,000 This cost should be distributed over 30,000 acres under the Central Oregon Canal and 21,000 acres under the Pilot Butte Canal as this is the acreage which these canals can be called upon to serve. The total cost of $66,000 amounts to $1.30 .per acre. The program here outlined intelligently carried out, will in the course of a few years reduce the maintenance to about $20,000 or less and the sinking fund to $7,000 or $6,000 which reduces the cost to about 97 cents per acre. The new structures can, without excessive cost, be made to last a full 20 years or longer, the sinking fund thereby reduced. Canals carefully studied in^ operation, and maintenance carefully planned thereupon will reduce trouble each year by virtue of the permanent improvements effected. Thereby under the direction of an experienced manager the cost of maintenance should steadily decrease. In conclusion it is believed that although the physical condition of this project is unsatisfactory and it will entail considerable expense to place it in proper shape to deliver water to all the lands open for sale thereunder, such is the excellent character of the soil and favorable crop market conditions that the sale of the unsold lands offers favorable financial inducements to the company to complete and improve the system in accordance with the plans herein suggested. Respectfully submitted, JOHN DUBUIS, Inspector. YC fed I THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY