Malinowski Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Malinowski Dam, located on the Wishkah River in Grays Harbor, Washington, was completed in 1963 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the local government.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 51 feet and a structural height of 41 feet, with a length of 264 feet and a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections conducted by the Washington Dept of Ecology.

The dam's primary purpose is water supply, and it plays a vital role in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 10,300 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 11 square miles, Malinowski Dam is equipped to handle significant water flow during periods of high demand or extreme weather events. Its location in Congressional District 06, Washington, underscores its importance in managing water resources and mitigating the impact of climate change on the region.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Malinowski Dam highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term effectiveness. With state regulation, permitting, and inspection procedures in place, the dam remains a critical asset in safeguarding water resources and supporting the resilience of the community against the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

264

River Or Stream

Wishkah River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.