Padden Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Padden Lake Dam, located in Bellingham, Washington, is a local government-owned structure that holds back water from Padden Creek to create Padden Lake.


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Summary

Built in 1933, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and has a structural height of 13 feet. With a storage capacity of 5200 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, providing a surface area of 160 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its age, Padden Lake Dam is in satisfactory condition according to the last inspection conducted in April 2018. However, it is classified as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. The Washington Department of Ecology oversees the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, ensuring that it meets safety standards and poses no threat to the surrounding community.

With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Padden Lake Dam is a valuable asset to the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial to prioritize the maintenance and safety of dams like Padden Lake Dam to ensure their long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

90

River Or Stream

Padden Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

2.8

Nid Storage

5200

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.