Summary
This arch-type dam, with a height of 24 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, serves the primary purpose of water supply for the region. With a storage capacity of 15.5 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in meeting the water needs of the community, especially in times of scarcity.
Despite its significance, Seldovia Upper Dam is currently rated as having a low hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in 2016 raised concerns about its structural integrity, prompting the need for maintenance and repair. The dam's location on Fish Creek adds to its importance in managing water resources in the area, making it essential to ensure its safety and functionality for the community's water supply needs. As a state-regulated dam, under the oversight of AKDNR, it is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to uphold safety standards.
As a crucial water infrastructure asset in Seldovia, the Upper Dam serves as a lifeline for the community, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and operational importance, efforts to address its poor condition and ensure its long-term sustainability are paramount. Continued monitoring, maintenance, and potential upgrades will be essential to safeguard the dam's structural integrity and optimize its role in providing reliable water supply to the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
126 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
FISH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.89 |
Nid Storage |
15.5 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Seldovia Upper Dam