Mcdonald Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
McDonald Dam, located in Grant, Washington, along Tr-Crab Creek, was completed in 1924 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 880 feet. It has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 200 acres, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Managed by a private owner, McDonald Dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in the area, warranting continued monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Situated in Congressional District 04, Washington, McDonald Dam plays a significant role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security in the region. With its historical significance dating back almost a century, this earth dam continues to uphold its primary purpose while facing the challenges of aging infrastructure and evolving climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of McDonald Dam serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental dynamics.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
880 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-Crab Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
200 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
27.4 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wilson Creek Below Corbett Draw Near Almira
|
0cfs |
Crab Creek At Irby
|
2cfs |
Crab Creek Near Moses Lake
|
28cfs |
Coal Creek At Mohler
|
1cfs |
Chelan River At Chelan
|
770cfs |
Methow River Near Pateros
|
5470cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Coulee City Community Park
|
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Million Dollar North - WDFW
|
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Ankeny No. 1 - WDFW
|
Mcdonald Dam
Wilson Creek