Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 1, located in East Sound, Washington, was completed in 1985 and serves as a crucial water supply source in the region.
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Summary
With a capacity of 156 acre-feet and a normal storage of 121 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in meeting the water needs of the surrounding communities. The dam is primarily made of earth and stone materials, with a structural height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, ensuring its durability and reliability in water storage and management.
Despite its importance, Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 1 has been classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Washington Department of Ecology, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. The last inspection date was in June 2018, and the dam is scheduled for inspections every 5 years. Although the dam's condition is rated as poor, efforts are being made to assess and manage the risks associated with its operation, including emergency action planning and risk assessment measures.
As a vital component of the water supply infrastructure in San Juan County, Washington, Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 1 highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk mitigation measures, the dam continues to play a crucial role in providing water security to the local communities while addressing the challenges posed by its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
75 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-East Sound |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.57 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Moran State Park Campground
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Snoring Bay Camp
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Fox Cove Camp
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Shallow Bay South
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Echo Bay East Camp
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Echo Bay North Camp
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Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 1
Cayou Quay Marina