Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a, also known as Widco Dam No.
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Summary
19a, is a public utility structure located in Centralia, Lewis County, Washington. This earth dam was completed in 1977 and serves the primary purpose of containing tailings from the nearby coal mine. The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 130 acre-feet.
Situated on Tr-Packwood Creek, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its modest size, the dam's importance in protecting the surrounding environment and communities cannot be understated.
As an essential component of the local water infrastructure, Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a demonstrates the ongoing commitment to water resource management in Washington State. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam exemplifies the engineering expertise of HDR, the designer behind this critical structure. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper regulation and maintenance of dams like Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a will be vital in safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.
Year Completed |
1977 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-Packwood Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Centralia Coal Mine Dam No 19a