North Lake West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 31, 2025

North Lake West Dam, also known as North Lake Dam, is a crucial water supply structure located in the Aleutians West region of Alaska.


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Summary

Completed in 1945, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 10 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet. It has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet, providing vital water resources to the surrounding area, particularly to the city of ADAK NAVAL BASE.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, North Lake West Dam plays a significant role in water management and supply for the region. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled and a maximum discharge capacity of 20 cubic feet per second, the dam presents a moderate risk level. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and safety for the community.

As a key infrastructure for water supply purposes, North Lake West Dam serves as a critical resource for the area's water needs. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its strategic location within the region, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support the upkeep of North Lake West Dam to safeguard its function and benefits for the local community.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

225

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

56

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.