Tapps Lake Dike No 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Tapps Lake Dike No 5, located in Pierce County, Washington, was completed in 1911 and serves as a crucial structure for recreational purposes in the area.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a length of 500 feet, diverts water from the White River to create a surface area of 2570 acres. With a maximum storage capacity of 40,000 acre-feet and a normal storage of 38,000 acre-feet, the dam ensures a steady water supply for the surrounding region.

Managed by a Public Utility, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment in 2018 deemed it satisfactory, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. While no spillway type or outlet gates are specified, the dam's associated structures are noted as zero, indicating a standalone structure dedicated to water diversion and recreational activities.

Congressional District 08's representative, Kim Schrier, oversees this crucial piece of infrastructure that plays a pivotal role in water management and recreational activities in the Auburn area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find interest in the historical significance and environmental impact of Tapps Lake Dike No 5, as well as the ongoing efforts to maintain its safety and functionality for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

Diversion from White River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2570

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

9.7

Nid Storage

40000

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

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.