Explorer Glacier Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: March 14, 2026
Explorer Glacier Pond Dam, located in Anchorage, Alaska, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.
Summary
Built in 1989, this Rockfill dam stands at a height of 7 feet and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Explorer Creek. With a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem and supporting biodiversity in the area.
Despite its important function, Explorer Glacier Pond Dam is rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition, with a moderate risk assessment given its age and maintenance issues. The dam lacks certain safety features such as a controlled spillway, raising concerns about its structural integrity in case of a flood or other emergency. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor its condition, with the latest assessment taking place in July 2019. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to keep track of the maintenance efforts and potential risks associated with this critical infrastructure.
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Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
EXPLORER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
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.
Jisco Lake Dam