Priest Rapids Reservoir Report
Nearby: Moran Slough Dike Rearing Pond Dike
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Priest Rapids, located in Richland, Washington, along the majestic Columbia River, is a hydroelectric dam built in 1961 with a primary purpose of generating renewable energy.
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Summary
This concrete, gravity, and rockfill structure stands tall at 187 feet, with a dam height of 90 feet and a hydraulic height of 78 feet. The reservoir created by Priest Rapids has a storage capacity of 191,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7,580 acres, providing vital flood risk reduction and recreational opportunities for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Priest Rapids boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 1,152 feet and features 22 Tainter radial gates for efficient water release. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,334,992 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a critical role in regulating water flow in the Columbia River basin. Despite its high hazard potential, Priest Rapids has not undergone a recent condition assessment, but emergency action plans are in place to ensure public safety in the event of a crisis.
As a significant landmark in Washington's water resource infrastructure, Priest Rapids serves as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing the power of nature for sustainable energy production. Its strategic location, innovative design, and vital role in water management make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking insights into the intersection of hydroelectric power, environmental stewardship, and community resilience.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
10103 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
Columbia River |
Surface Area |
7580 |
Hydraulic Height |
78 |
Drainage Area |
95500 |
Nid Storage |
191000 |
Structural Height |
187 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
187 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Columbia River Below Priest Rapids Dam
|
103000cfs |
Crab Creek Near Beverly
|
165cfs |
Granger Drain At Granger
|
13cfs |
Yakima River Above Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
29600cfs |
Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
542cfs |
Yakima River At Mabton
|
26200cfs |
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.
Priest Rapids