Cle Elum Main Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Cle Elum, Washington, the Cle Elum Main Dike is a federal-owned structure designed by the Department of the Interior's Water and Power Resources Service.


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Summary

Built in 1932, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 40 feet and spans 850 feet along the Cle Elum River. With a storage capacity of 710,000 acre-feet, the dam serves as a critical flood control measure in the region.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the Cle Elum Main Dike plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding Kittitas County from potential inundation. With a high hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the federal agency to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. Despite its importance, the condition assessment of the dam is currently marked as "Not Available," highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the community from flood risks.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable infrastructure solutions, the Cle Elum Main Dike serves as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in mitigating flood hazards and managing water resources. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location along the Cle Elum River, this federal-owned structure stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water management needs with environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

850

River Or Stream

CLE ELUM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4812

Nid Storage

710000

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.