Lower Rimrock Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lower Rimrock Dam, located in Palisades, Washington, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology.


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Summary

Built in 1972, this rockfill dam on Mccarteney Creek serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 550 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a hydraulic height of 67 feet and a structural height of 55 feet, the dam provides a low hazard potential, making it a safe destination for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Seattle District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lower Rimrock Dam boasts a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 22,400 cubic feet per second. The dam's design, with a stone core and rock foundation, reflects a commitment to both structural integrity and environmental sustainability. Despite not having a current condition assessment, the dam's low hazard potential and state-regulated status ensure safe operation for visitors and nearby residents alike.

Congressional District 04's Representative Dan Newhouse (R) oversees the area where Lower Rimrock Dam is located, ensuring that proper inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain the dam's safety and functionality. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational offerings, Lower Rimrock Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resources and climate conservation in the state of Washington.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

255

River Or Stream

Mccarteney Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

550

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

256

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

67
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.