Tapps Lake Backflow Prevention Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

The Tapps Lake Backflow Prevention Structure in Bonney Lake, Washington, is a critical infrastructure designed by Washington Group to prevent backflow and ensure water supply reliability for the region.


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Summary

This structure, completed in 2007, serves a primary purpose of recreation while also supporting water supply needs. With a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet and a storage capacity of 55,500 acre-feet, the structure plays a crucial role in managing water levels and preventing potential hazards.

Owned and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, the Tapps Lake Backflow Prevention Structure undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its operational integrity. With a high hazard potential, the structure's satisfactory condition assessment in 2018 highlights its importance in maintaining public safety and water resource management. Located in Pierce County, Washington, this gravity-type dam stands at 21.5 feet tall and boasts a surface area of 2,570 acres, making it a key component of the region's water infrastructure.

As a vital component of the water supply system in Washington, the Tapps Lake Backflow Prevention Structure is a testament to effective design and engineering for water resource management. With a focus on recreation and water supply, this structure exemplifies the intersection of public utility infrastructure and environmental stewardship. Through ongoing monitoring and maintenance, this structure continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water supply reliability and protecting the surrounding community from potential risks associated with water management.

Year Completed

2007

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2570

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Nid Storage

55500

Structural Height

21.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.