Kachess is a federal-owned dam located in Easton, Washington, along the Kachess River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1912 by the Bureau of Reclamation, the primary purpose of this earth dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for irrigation and recreation. With a height of 63 feet and a hydraulic height of 59 feet, Kachess has a storage capacity of 245,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 4,535 acres. The dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 5,516 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Kachess remains a vital infrastructure for water management in Kittitas County, Washington. With a hazard potential classified as high, regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety. While the exact condition assessment is not currently available, the dam has an emergency action plan in place, last revised in June 2020, to mitigate any potential risks or hazards. Kachess serves as a key component in the region's water resource management, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
KACHESS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4535 |
Hydraulic Height |
59 |
Drainage Area |
64 |
Nid Storage |
245000 |
Structural Height |
115 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
115 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Easton State Park
|
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East Kachess Group Campground
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East Kachess Group Site
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Wish Poosh
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Wish Poosh Campground
|
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Ensign Ranch
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