Boundary is a hydroelectric dam located in Pend Oreille, Washington, along the banks of the Pend Oreille River. Constructed in 1967, this concrete dam stands at a height of 340 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 95,000 acre-feet, a drainage area of 25,200 square miles, and a maximum discharge of 360,000 cubic feet per second.
Owned and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Boundary is classified as having a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 100 feet and various outlet gates for water release. Despite its age, the condition assessment for Boundary is currently listed as "Not Available," and the last inspection was conducted in September 2020 with an inspection frequency of one year.
With its significant hydraulic height of 330 feet and structural height of 360 feet, Boundary Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and renewable energy production in the region. Its location in the scenic Northport area offers opportunities for recreation while providing essential services for the surrounding communities. As discussions around climate change and water resource sustainability continue, monitoring and maintaining structures like Boundary will be vital to ensure the safety and efficiency of our water systems.
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