Ponderay Newsprint Mill Settling Lagoon Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Ponderay Newsprint Mill Settling Lagoon in Usk, Washington, is a privately owned earth dam structure that was completed in 1989.
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Summary
Situated on the Pend Oreille River-Offstream, this lagoon serves a primary purpose that is classified as 'Other', with a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. With a surface area of 7.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.01 square miles, the lagoon has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of its condition assessment.
Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, the Ponderay Newsprint Mill Settling Lagoon has a structural height of 24 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet. It is located in Pend Oreille County, Washington, within Congressional District 05. Despite not having any associated structures, inspections and enforcement actions by the state regulatory agency are conducted regularly to ensure compliance with state regulations. The lagoon plays a vital role in managing wastewater from the newsprint mill and protecting the surrounding environment and water resources.
Overall, the Ponderay Newsprint Mill Settling Lagoon stands as an essential infrastructure for the local community, contributing to the preservation of water quality in the Pend Oreille River-Offstream. With its low hazard potential and consistent regulatory oversight, this earth dam structure showcases the importance of proper management and maintenance of water resources in the face of climate change and environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
2250 |
River Or Stream |
Pend Oreille River-Offstream |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
105 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pend Oreille River At Newport Wa
|
17000cfs |
Priest River Nr Priest River Id
|
955cfs |
Little Spokane River At Elk
|
48cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
764cfs |
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione
|
17400cfs |
Little Spokane River At Dartford
|
173cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Skookum Creek- State Forest
|
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County Fair Campground
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South Skookum Campground
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South Skookum Lake Campground
|
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South Skookum Lake
|
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Lodge Creek Camp
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Ponderay Newsprint Mill Settling Lagoon
Pow Wow Park, Cusick