Blackhorse East Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Blackhorse East Dam, located in Spokane, Washington, was completed in 1960 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Engineering.
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Summary
This federal-owned structure serves as a vital component for the management of the Rock Creek watershed, providing a fish and wildlife pond as its primary purpose. With a height of 12 feet and a length of 155 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 212 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20.9 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Blackhorse East Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2013. The dam features a controlled spillway type and other controlled outlet gates, ensuring proper water flow management. Its risk assessment is classified as very high (1), emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of downstream areas.
Blackhorse East Dam stands as a key structure in the conservation efforts of the Fish and Wildlife Service, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and operation of dams like Blackhorse East Dam are crucial in safeguarding ecosystems and supporting biodiversity in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
155 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Rock Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
212 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Blackhorse East Dam