Ross is a hydroelectric dam located in Whatcom, Washington, along the Skagit River. Built in 1949 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and Dr. J.L. Savage, the dam stands at 540 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 395 feet. It serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and providing storage for fish and wildlife ponds. With a storage capacity of over 1.4 million acre-feet, Ross plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Ross has a controlled spillway with a width of 240 feet and is equipped with 12 Tainter radial gates. The dam has a high hazard potential and is at a very high risk level, according to assessments. While the condition assessment is not available, the emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in January 2021. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Ross remains a key asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

The dam's impact extends beyond hydroelectric power generation, as it also provides vital flood protection, recreational opportunities, and habitat conservation for wildlife. Its presence along the Skagit River demonstrates the intersection of water resource management, renewable energy production, and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, Ross serves as a critical infrastructure for adapting to and mitigating the effects of a changing climate in the Pacific Northwest.