Upper Falls Intake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
The Upper Falls Intake Dam, located in Spokane, Washington, is a privately owned structure designed by Washington Water Power and completed in 1922.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at 20 feet tall and spans 106 feet in length, serving the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4,255 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the water resources of the Spokane River for renewable energy production.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Upper Falls Intake Dam has a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating of 2. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the dam does not feature a spillway, its structural integrity and design make it a key component of the region's water infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of sustainable resource management in the face of climate change.
As a significant landmark in the hydroelectric landscape of Washington, the Upper Falls Intake Dam represents a blend of historical engineering and modern energy production. Its location, design, and operational oversight by federal agencies underscore the critical role of water resources in combating climate change and meeting the energy needs of the region. By understanding the complexities of dam management and the potential risks involved, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the interconnectedness of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
106 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Spokane River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
150 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.3 |
Drainage Area |
4255 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spokane River At Spokane
|
17500cfs |
Hangman Creek At Spokane
|
98cfs |
Little Spokane River At Dartford
|
222cfs |
Little Spokane River Near Dartford
|
527cfs |
Spokane River Below Nine Mile Dam At Spokane
|
17300cfs |
Spokane River Nr Post Falls Id
|
19800cfs |
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.
Upper Falls Intake Dam