Powell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Powell Dam, located in Lewis, Washington, was completed in 1963 for the primary purpose of irrigation, utilizing water from the Blue Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a structural height of 11 feet and a length of 374 feet, has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 63 acres. It is owned and regulated by a private entity but falls under the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Ecology, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement are in place.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Powell Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area. With no associated structures and a minimal drainage area of 3.16 square miles, the dam serves as a key water resource for local irrigation needs. The dam's location within Congressional District 03, Washington, under the representation of Jaime Herrera Beutler, highlights its significance in the region's water management infrastructure.

Given its importance in water resource management, Powell Dam's operational efficiency and structural integrity are essential for sustaining agricultural activities in the area. As a focal point for irrigation, the dam's regulatory oversight ensures compliance with safety standards and emergency preparedness measures. With a focus on maintaining its functionality and safety, Powell Dam remains a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

374

River Or Stream

Blue Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

3.16

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.