Spring Hill Saddle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Spring Hill Saddle Dam, located in Malaga, Washington, is a key structure in the region's water resource management system.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1918 for the primary purpose of irrigation, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 12 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 340 acre-feet. The dam serves the community by storing water from Tr-Stemilt Creek-Offstream for agricultural purposes, ensuring a stable water supply for local farmers.

With a drainage area of 0.43 square miles, Spring Hill Saddle Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water security in the region. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in May 2018. The Washington Department of Ecology oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated and meets guidelines to address any potential risks effectively.

As a symbol of sustainable water management and climate resilience, Spring Hill Saddle Dam continues to support the local community by providing essential irrigation water and recreational opportunities. Its strategic location and design reflect a commitment to responsible water resource management in Chelan County, Washington. Despite its age, the dam remains a critical infrastructure asset, safeguarding water resources for future generations and adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Tr-Stemilt Creek-Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

340

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.