Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 2, located in East Sound, San Juan County, Washington, was completed in 1985 and serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area.
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Summary
The dam, primarily owned by a private entity, stands at a hydraulic height of 31 feet, with a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 140 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 121 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.5 acres.
Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, this earth dam with a stone core is designed to withstand high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of June 2019. The dam is regularly inspected, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018, and has emergency action plans in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen events. With a drainage area of 0.57 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 365 cubic feet per second, Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
This dam, situated in Congressional District 02 of Washington, is a key component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential water supply for the residents of East Sound and beyond. With its regulated status by the state and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, Buck Mountain Reservoir Dam No 2 stands as a reliable and necessary structure for ensuring water security in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in the design and operational details of this significant dam, contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of water resources in Washington State.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
140 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-East Sound |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.57 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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 2
Cayou Quay Marina