Ward Cove Cannery Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carlanna Lake Lake Connell
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
The Ward Cove Cannery Dam, also known as Cannery Lake Dam, is a historic timber crib dam located in Ketchikan, Alaska.
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Summary
Built in 1932 by Shannon & Wilson, this dam serves as a vital water supply source in the area, particularly for the surrounding community. Standing at a height of 25 feet and with a length of 114 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.
Situated on Walsh Creek, the Ward Cove Cannery Dam is regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its age, the Ward Cove Cannery Dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing water supply, showcasing the enduring engineering and design expertise of its creators.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Ward Cove Cannery Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for sustainable water management. With a rich history and functional design, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of engineering, water resource management, and environmental stewardship in Alaska's diverse landscape.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
114 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
WALSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.54 |
Nid Storage |
46 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Ward Cove Cannery Dam