Tapps Lake Dike No 8 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Tapps Lake Dike No 8 is a vital public utility structure in Pierce County, Washington, designed to divert water from the White River for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1911, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, with a length of 350 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 34,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2,570 acres, making it a significant resource for water management and recreation in the region.
Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, Tapps Lake Dike No 8 is regularly inspected and regulated to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of February 2018, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding communities. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory guidelines and serves as a key piece of infrastructure in the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure resilience, structures like Tapps Lake Dike No 8 become even more crucial for managing water flow and mitigating potential risks. With its location in the Seattle District and oversight by state and federal agencies, this dam represents a collaborative effort to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Washington. As enthusiasts for water resource management and climate adaptation, understanding the significance of structures like Tapps Lake Dike No 8 is essential for advocating for sustainable practices and policies to protect our water systems for future generations.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
Diversion from White River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2570 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
9.7 |
Nid Storage |
34000 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lake Tapps Diversion At Dieringer
|
1200cfs |
Puyallup River At Alderton
|
4600cfs |
Big Soos Creek Above Hatchery Near Auburn
|
424cfs |
Newaukum Creek Near Black Diamond
|
47cfs |
Green River Near Auburn
|
10100cfs |
South Prairie Creek At South Prairie
|
686cfs |
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.
Tapps Lake Dike No 8
Lake Tapps Near Sumner
Allan Yorke Park