Des Moines Ck Reg Det Pond West Berm Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Des Moines Creek Regional Detention Pond West Berm, located in King County, Washington, is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure designed to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation.
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Summary
Completed in 2009, this earth dam structure stands at a hydraulic height of 8 feet and spans 700 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet to mitigate the impacts of heavy rainfall events. Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, the pond plays a vital role in safeguarding the local community against the hazards posed by high water levels in Des Moines Creek.
With a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020, the Des Moines Creek Regional Detention Pond West Berm is subject to regular inspections to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control. Classified as having a high hazard potential, this infrastructure prioritizes public safety while serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The pond's design, incorporating stone core and soil foundations, reflects a commitment to long-term resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource dynamics. As a state-regulated and permitted facility, this structure exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government and regulatory agencies to address climate-induced challenges in water management.
As a significant component of the flood control system along Des Moines Creek, the West Berm detention pond embodies the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation strategies. Its strategic location and capacity for storing excess water contribute to reducing the risk of flooding in the area, safeguarding both property and livelihoods. As climate change continues to heighten the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, investments in resilient infrastructure like the Des Moines Creek Regional Detention Pond play a crucial role in ensuring the community's resilience to future challenges in water resource management and climate variability.
Year Completed |
2009 |
Dam Length |
700 |
River Or Stream |
Des Moines Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1.56 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill Creek Near Mouth At Orillia
|
44cfs |
Spring Brook Creek At Orillia
|
7cfs |
Duwamish River At Golf Course At Tukwila
|
6700cfs |
Mill Creek At Earthworks Park At Kent
|
8cfs |
Cedar River At Renton
|
5160cfs |
Green River Near Auburn
|
10100cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Point Robinson Campground
|
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Dash Point State Park
|
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Dash Point Campground
|
Des Moines Ck Reg Det Pond West Berm
Lake Fenwick Trail Kent