Cushman No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Cushman No 2, also known as Lower Cushman Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric facility located in Mason County, Washington.


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Summary

Completed in 1930, this arch dam stands at a structural height of 275 feet, with a hydraulic height of 215 feet, harnessing the power of the North Fork Skokomish River to generate electricity and provide recreational opportunities. With a storage capacity of 8,800 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 41,050 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by a public utility, Cushman No 2 is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, with a high hazard potential due to its location and design. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition with regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures in place. The surrounding area, including the Skokomish Indian Reservation, benefits from the dam's presence, contributing to both energy production and water recreation activities. As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, Cushman No 2 stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the Pacific Northwest.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

175

River Or Stream

North Fork Skokomish River (Ho

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

150

Hydraulic Height

215

Drainage Area

103

Nid Storage

8800

Structural Height

275

Outlet Gates

Drum - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

275
       
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.