Hannegan Road Detention Basin Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Bellingham, Washington, the Hannegan Road Detention Basin serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along Baker Creek.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, this earth-type dam was completed in 1996 and stands at a hydraulic height of 28 feet, with a structural height of 25 feet. With a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.07 square miles, this basin plays a vital role in managing stormwater and reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding area.
The Hannegan Road Detention Basin covers a surface area of 1 acre and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1370 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 deemed it satisfactory. Regular inspections are carried out every 5 years to ensure the structure's integrity and safety. As a part of the local government's flood risk reduction efforts, this detention basin plays a crucial role in protecting the community from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.
With its strategic location and design, the Hannegan Road Detention Basin not only serves as a flood risk reduction measure but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts and water resource experts continue to monitor and assess the impacts of climate change, structures like this detention basin play a vital role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community for years to come.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
180 |
River Or Stream |
Baker Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
2.07 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Cedar Lake Camp
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Pine Lake Camp
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Larrabee State Park
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Lizard Lake Camp
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Hannegan Road Detention Basin
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