Yelm Canal Dike Reservoir Report
Nearby: Windsor Waterski Pond Chambers Lake
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Yelm Canal Dike in Washington is a crucial piece of infrastructure for hydroelectric purposes along the Nisqually River.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 35 feet, was completed in 1930 and has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 12 feet and controlled spillway type, this structure plays a significant role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of downstream areas.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Yelm Canal Dike has been inspected as recently as October 2020 and is deemed to have a high hazard potential. Despite its age, this dam remains vital for water resource management in the region. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on condition assessment and risk management measures are not currently available. The surrounding area is at very high risk, indicating the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance of this critical infrastructure to protect both the environment and local communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the Yelm Canal Dike is essential for appreciating the complexities of water management in a changing climate. This dam not only serves a functional purpose for hydroelectric power generation but also plays a key role in flood control and water storage. With its high hazard potential and very high risk rating, it is evident that ongoing attention and investment are needed to ensure the safety and efficacy of this crucial component of the water infrastructure in Thurston County, Washington.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
48050 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
Nisqually River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Yelm Canal Dike
Spanaway McKenna Highway Pierce County