Lower Eklutna Reservoir Report
Nearby: Eklutna Dam Lower Fire Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Lower Eklutna is a private hydroelectric dam located in Anchorage, Alaska, along the Eklutna River.
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Summary
Built in 1923, this arch-type dam stands at a structural height of 60 feet with a hydraulic height of 57 feet, providing a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 4600 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital source of renewable energy for the region.
Although the dam is regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, its hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 0 feet, indicating potential challenges in managing water flow during extreme weather events.
Lower Eklutna represents a historical landmark in Alaska's hydroelectric infrastructure, providing valuable insights into the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition and risk factors, ongoing collaboration between government agencies and private owners is crucial to ensuring the safety and sustainability of this vital energy source in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
95 |
River Or Stream |
EKLUTNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
60 |
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.
Lower Eklutna