Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 3c North Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 3c North, also known as Widco Dam No.
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Summary
3c - North, is a significant earth dam located in Centralia, Washington. Owned by a Public Utility, this dam was completed in 1987 and stands at a structural height of 134 feet, with a hydraulic height of 134 feet. Its primary purpose is to contain tailings, with a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 2400 feet and covers a surface area of 72 acres, serving as a crucial structure for managing water resources in the region.
Situated on South Hanaford Creek-Offstream, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 3c North falls under the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Ecology and is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of August 2020 was deemed satisfactory. With a drainage area of 0.34 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in flood control and water storage in the Lewis County area.
Supported by a rock foundation and stone core, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 3c North is a crucial component of the region's water infrastructure. With its strategic location, ample storage capacity, and satisfactory condition, this dam underscores the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the face of increasing environmental challenges. As a key structure in the area, it exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
River Or Stream |
South Hanaford Creek-Offstream |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
72 |
Hydraulic Height |
134 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Structural Height |
134 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
134 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Tenino City Park
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Stan Hedwall Park
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Millersylvania State Park
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Millersylvania State Park Campground
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Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 3c North