Upriver Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Upriver Dam in Spokane, Washington, stands as a critical structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, this hydroelectric dam on the Spokane River serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Completed in 1937, the concrete dam has a height of 38 feet and a length of 725 feet, with a storage capacity of 3000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 58,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upriver Dam has a controlled spillway and eight Tainter (radial) outlet gates. With a hazard potential rated as high and a very high risk assessment, the dam's safety and emergency preparedness are under constant scrutiny. Despite its age, Upriver Dam continues to play a vital role in the region's water management, with its impact stretching far beyond its physical structure.
As a key feature in the Seattle District's water infrastructure, Upriver Dam remains a focal point for ongoing inspection and risk management measures. Its historical significance, combined with its modern-day importance in providing renewable energy and recreational opportunities, make it a compelling subject for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the Pacific Northwest.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
725 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Spokane River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
4057 |
Nid Storage |
3000 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spokane River At Spokane
|
10500cfs |
Hangman Creek At Spokane
|
87cfs |
Little Spokane River At Dartford
|
250cfs |
Little Spokane River Near Dartford
|
551cfs |
Spokane River Below Nine Mile Dam At Spokane
|
10500cfs |
Spokane River Nr Post Falls Id
|
13100cfs |
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.
Upriver Dam