Tapps Lake Dike No 13 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Tapps Lake Dike No 13 is a crucial structure located in Sumner, Washington, that serves as a diversion from the White River.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dike is primarily used for recreation purposes, offering a surface area of 2570 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet. Completed in 1911, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a structural height of 6 feet, with a total length of 350 feet.

Maintained and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, Tapps Lake Dike No 13 is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, this dike plays a critical role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding areas from flooding. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet safety standards and is equipped to handle emergencies, with an emergency action plan last revised in March 2020.

Located in Pierce County, Washington, Tapps Lake Dike No 13 is an essential component of the region's water infrastructure, providing both recreational opportunities and flood protection. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dike exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of proper dam operation and regulation in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

Diversion from White River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2570

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

9.7

Nid Storage

10000

Structural Height

6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

6
       
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.