Red Dog Water Supply Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
The Red Dog Water Supply Dam, located in Kivalina, Alaska, serves as a vital source of water for the surrounding area, with a primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
Constructed in 1989 by Dames & Moore, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive 75 feet in height and spans 415 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 684 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the community.
Despite its significant hazard potential, the Red Dog Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition and meets regulatory standards for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 990 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, with a designated emergency action plan in place to address any potential hazards effectively.
With its location on Bons Creek and its critical role in water supply, the Red Dog Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources in remote and challenging environments. As climate change continues to impact the region, the dam's resilience and ability to meet the community's water needs will be essential in ensuring the sustainability and safety of the area.
Dam Height |
63 |
Hydraulic Height |
54 |
Drainage Area |
4.57 |
Year Completed |
1989 |
Structural Height |
75 |
Nid Storage |
684 |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Surface Area |
30 |
River Or Stream |
BONS CREEK |
Dam Length |
415 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Nid Height |
75 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Red Dog Water Supply Dam