Wind
Humidity
Box Canyon is a gravity dam located on the Pend Oreille River in Metaline, Washington.
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.
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione
|
37300cfs |
Outlet Creek Near Metaline Falls
|
19cfs |
Columbia River At International Boundary
|
118000cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
1890cfs |
Colville River At Kettle Falls
|
233cfs |
Kettle River Near Laurier
|
8070cfs |
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 |
| 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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Ne1/4 Of Sec 13, T40N, R46E To Nw1/4 Of Sec 5, T40N, R46E
Segment 2 Flows For Almost 10 Miles From The Intersection With Trail 312 To Its Confluence With The Upper Priest River To Segment 2 Flows For Almost 10 Miles From The Intersection With Trail 312 To Its Confluence With The Upper Priest River
Segment 1 Is Classified As Wild And Flows From Its Source For Almost Five Miles To The Intersection With Trail 312 To Segment 1 Is Classified As Wild And Flows From Its Source For Almost To The Intersection With Trail 312
Upper Priest River
Long Canyon Pass, Sec. 30, T63N, R2W To Forest Boundary, Road #417, Sec. 25, T63N, R2W
Forest Boundary, Sec. 34, T59N, R2W To Harrison Lake, Sec. 31, T62N, R2W