Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19, also known as Widco Dam No.
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Summary
19, is a public utility structure located in Centralia, Washington. Built in 1977, this earth dam, with a stone core foundation, serves the primary purpose of containing tailings from the coal mining operations in the area. The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 9 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a normal storage of 105 acre-feet.
Situated on Tr-Packwood Creek in Lewis County, this dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been officially rated. While the structure has not undergone recent inspections, an emergency action plan was last revised in July 2013, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks. With a drainage area of 0.34 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 38 cubic feet per second, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Overall, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19 serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Centralia, Washington, safeguarding against potential risks associated with tailings containment. While its low hazard potential may bring a sense of security, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in water management and environmental protection. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of properly managing and maintaining structures like Dam No 19 becomes increasingly crucial for the community and ecosystem it serves.
Year Completed |
1977 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-Packwood Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19