Columbia Marsh Unit #1 Pond No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Columbia Marsh Unit #1 Pond No.


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Summary

3 Dam, located in Grant County, Washington, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is to create a fish and wildlife pond, with a normal storage level of 35 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.6 acres.

The dam, situated on Lower Crab Creek, is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with the last inspection conducted in 2012. The risk assessment indicates a very high risk level (1), prompting the need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and supporting the local fish and wildlife habitat.

As an essential component of the Columbia Marsh Unit, this dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity in the region. With its historical significance and environmental importance, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are imperative to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of this key water management infrastructure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the intricate details and significance of the Columbia Marsh Unit #1 Pond No. 3 Dam in the broader context of water conservation and habitat preservation efforts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

2254

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

LOWER CRAB CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.6

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

178

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.