Bumping Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bumping Lake, located in Yakima, Washington, is a federally owned reservoir managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Built in 1910 for flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a hydraulic height of 35 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 37,700 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 1,303 acres and is fed by the Bumping River, with a drainage area of 69 square miles.

The dam at Bumping Lake has undergone modifications in 1997 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, other, seismic, and structural aspects. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment is currently listed as not available. Emergency action plans have been prepared, with the latest revision in June 2020. The dam's hazard potential, combined with its scenic location and recreational opportunities, make Bumping Lake a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

For those interested in the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and recreational opportunities, Bumping Lake offers a captivating case study. With its history dating back over a century, ongoing maintenance and modification efforts, and the potential for high hazard events, this federally owned reservoir serves as a focal point for understanding the complex interplay between infrastructure, natural resources, and public safety. Whether for flood risk reduction, irrigation purposes, or recreational activities, Bumping Lake continues to play a vital role in the water resource management of the Yakima region in Washington State.

Years Modified

1997 - Foundation, 1997 - Hydraulic, 1997 - Other, 1997 - Seismic, 1997 - Structural

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

2925

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BUMPING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1303

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

69

Nid Storage

37700

Structural Height

61

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

61
       
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.