Bernsen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Snakebite Reservoir Dam Koreis Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bernsen Dam, also known as Powerline Reservoir Dam, is a state-owned structure in Franklin County, Washington, designed by Steve T.
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Summary
Monek. Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 492 feet in length. With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam also serves recreational activities and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet.
Situated on the irrigation drainage of the Ringold River in the city of RINGOLD, Bernsen Dam is regulated and inspected by the Washington Department of Ecology. The dam's low hazard potential and not-rated condition assessment indicate its stable structural integrity. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam features a spillway with a maximum discharge of 30 cubic feet per second, ensuring safe water release during heavy inflows.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Bernsen Dam for its vital role in providing irrigation water to the surrounding area, while also offering recreational opportunities. Its construction and management by the state demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water resource management. The dam's location, design, and operational features align with regulations and inspections, ensuring the safety and efficiency of its functions for the community it serves.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
492 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
IRRIGATION DRAINAGE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yakima River At Kiona
|
23800cfs |
Columbia River Below Priest Rapids Dam
|
124000cfs |
Crab Creek Near Beverly
|
158cfs |
Crab Creek Near Moses Lake
|
28cfs |
Palouse River At Hooper
|
1030cfs |
Walla Walla River Near Touchet
|
1040cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bernsen Dam