Frozen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Frozen Lake Dam, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the National Park Service for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1930, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. While the dam's primary purpose is water supply, it also serves as a critical component in the management of the TR-WHITE RIVER.

Despite its age, Frozen Lake Dam is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its location and function. While information on the dam's condition assessment is not available, regular inspections by the National Park Service ensure that any necessary maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in April 2016, indicating a commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure in the event of an emergency.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Frozen Lake Dam to be a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering for water management. Its role in providing water supply while also posing potential risks highlights the delicate balance between resource utilization and safety in dams across the country. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam, its significance in the region's water infrastructure remains essential for both environmental conservation and human use.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

76

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.