Gorge Reservoir Report

Nearby: Diablo Ross

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Gorge, a hydroelectric dam located in Newhalem, Washington, is a striking concrete structure designed by Dr.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

J. L. Savage and completed in 1961. With a height of 300 feet and a storage capacity of 9,758 acre-feet, Gorge serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. Situated on the Skagit River in Whatcom County, this dam is under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Boasting a controlled spillway width of 94 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 145,000 cubic feet per second, Gorge contributes significantly to the region's water resource management. The dam's very high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, Gorge remains a vital infrastructure for the community's energy needs while also offering recreational opportunities and flood protection.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the impressive engineering behind Gorge and its pivotal role in balancing hydroelectric power generation with environmental conservation make it a compelling site to study. The collaboration between local government and federal agencies in managing this dam highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. The rich history and significant impact of Gorge on the surrounding ecosystem underscore the need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

300

River Or Stream

Skagit River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

241

Hydraulic Height

280

Drainage Area

1193

Nid Storage

9758

Structural Height

300

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

300
       
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.