Rabel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Rabel Dam, also known as Wenner Lakes Dam No.


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Summary

2, is a private-owned structure located in Carlton, Washington. Built in 1940, the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene spot for water enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam's design is classified as an Earth type, with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. It has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11 acres, making it a significant feature in the area.

Situated on Tr-Benson Creek, Rabel Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Okanogan County. With a drainage area of 7.1 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology. The dam's last inspection was conducted in October 2015, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality for both recreational and water management purposes.

Overall, Rabel Dam stands as a vital infrastructure in Washington's water resource management system, providing both recreational opportunities and essential flood control measures. Its location in the beautiful Okanogan County and proximity to Benson Creek make it a valuable asset for local residents and visitors alike. With its fair condition and high hazard potential, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the dam's long-term effectiveness in water management and recreation.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Tr-Benson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

7.1

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.