Box Canyon Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Box Canyon is a gravity dam located on the Pend Oreille River in Metaline, Washington.
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Summary
Built in 1955 for hydroelectric purposes, this structure stands at 105 feet tall and stretches 260 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a controlled spillway width of 160 feet. The dam is associated with two other structures, WA00013S001 and WA00013S003, and has a high hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating.
Owned by a public utility, Box Canyon plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power for the region. The dam's location within the Seattle District and its proximity to the Pend Oreille River make it a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans are in place to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen events. With its rich history and significant impact on the area's water resources, Box Canyon is a key landmark for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.
For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate, Box Canyon offers a fascinating case study in hydroelectric power generation and dam infrastructure. Its multi-arch core type and rock-soil foundations demonstrate innovative engineering techniques for harnessing the energy of the Pend Oreille River. With a high hazard potential and very high risk assessment, the dam presents challenges and opportunities for risk management and emergency preparedness. As a critical piece of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's jurisdiction, Box Canyon exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
105 |
River Or Stream |
Pend Oreille River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
2.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
105 |
Drainage Area |
24900 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
105 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione
|
27600cfs |
Outlet Creek Near Metaline Falls
|
19cfs |
Columbia River At International Boundary
|
81300cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
1490cfs |
Colville River At Kettle Falls
|
157cfs |
Kettle River Near Laurier
|
918cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Edgewater Campground
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Noisy Creek Campground
|
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Noisy Creek
|
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West Sullivan Campground
|
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West Sullivan
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East Sullivan Campground
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Box Canyon
International Selkirk Loop, Ione