McKay Dam, located in Douglas, Washington, along the Tr-Columbia River, was completed in 1961 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet, with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 12 feet. It has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, providing vital protection to the surrounding area against potential flooding events.

Managed by the Washington Dept of Ecology, McKay Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment. Despite not having a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam is regularly inspected, meeting state regulatory standards for maintenance and operation. With a drainage area of 0.78 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 39 cubic feet per second, McKay Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from the risks associated with high water levels.

Although McKay Dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its strategic location and design continue to contribute to effective flood control measures. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the importance of well-maintained infrastructure like McKay Dam becomes increasingly evident in protecting water resources and minimizing potential damages from flooding in the region.