Moses Lake North Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Moses Lake North Dam, also known as North Dam, is a gravity dam located in Smyrna, Washington, along Crab Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1930, the dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation and recreation, with a primary focus on providing recreational opportunities for the community. With a height of 19 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 50,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6,800 acres.

Owned by a public utility, Moses Lake North Dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. Despite being primarily used for recreation, the dam also plays a role in irrigation, providing water for agricultural purposes in the surrounding area. Located in a picturesque setting, the dam offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices.

In the heart of Grant County, Washington, Moses Lake North Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human needs and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and continued role in water resource management, the dam serves as a valuable asset to the local community and a symbol of the importance of responsible water use in the face of climate change. As visitors explore the area, they can witness firsthand the beauty and utility of this gravity dam, reflecting the harmonious relationship between humans and nature in the management of water resources.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

88

River Or Stream

Crab Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

6800

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

3080

Nid Storage

50000

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.