Durhack Dam No 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Durhack Dam No 4 Durhack Dam No 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Durhack Dam No 5, located in San Juan, Washington, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1972 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Situated on the Tr-Rocky Bay stream, this dam has a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 9 feet, with a length of 193 feet. It provides a maximum storage capacity of 225 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 198 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 198 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.5 square miles.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Durhack Dam No 5 is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. Despite not being owned or funded by federal agencies, this dam meets state regulatory requirements and is in compliance with state jurisdiction laws. Its emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently not available, suggesting a need for further evaluation and documentation in the event of an emergency.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Durhack Dam No 5 offers a glimpse into the infrastructure supporting recreational activities in the region while highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards. As a key component of the local watershed, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. Further evaluation of its emergency preparedness and risk management strategies could enhance the resilience and longevity of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
193 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-Rocky Bay |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
198 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nooksack River At Ferndale
|
42100cfs |
Samish River Near Burlington
|
2230cfs |
Olsen Creek Near Bellingham
|
11cfs |
Carpenter Creek At N Shore Drive Nr Bellingham
|
31cfs |
Skagit River Near Mount Vernon
|
133000cfs |
Fishtrap Creek At Front Street At Lynden
|
547cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Spencer Spit State Park Campground
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Moran State Park Campground
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Cascadia Marine Trail Campsite
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Durhack Dam No 5
San Juan County