Lake Demarie Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Lake Demarie Dam, situated in the Aleutians West of Alaska, is a gravity-type dam primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1951, this dam stands at a structural height of 19 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 2120 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 51 feet, is of uncontrolled type, allowing for a maximum discharge of 5000 cubic feet per second.

Despite being labeled as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2011. The dam is under state regulation with the Alaska Department of Natural Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Lake Demarie Dam continues to be a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region, serving the city of ADAK and its residents.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Lake Demarie Dam a fascinating subject of study. With its unique design features, operational details, and regulatory framework, this dam presents an intriguing case study for understanding the intersection of water supply, infrastructure development, and environmental risk management in remote regions like the Aleutians West of Alaska.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

95

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

2120

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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