Tapps Lake Dike No 14 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Tapps Lake Dike No 14, also known as Printz Basin North Dike, is a crucial structure located in Auburn, Washington.


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Summary

Built in 1911, this earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 1450 feet in length, providing essential recreational benefits to the local community. Situated on the Diversion Canal Tr-White River, this dike is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.

With a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 400 acres, Tapps Lake Dike No 14 plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, regular inspections and enforcement ensure that the dike remains structurally sound and safe for public use. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in March 2020, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and preparedness.

In addition to its recreational purpose, Tapps Lake Dike No 14 serves as a vital infrastructure component in Pierce County, Washington. Its location in Congressional District 08 underlines the importance of this earth dam in safeguarding local water resources and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Tapps Lake Dike No 14 play a crucial role in sustainable water management and resilience planning for the future.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1450

River Or Stream

Diversion Canal Tr-White River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

400

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

9.6

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.