Ob-3 Warden Digester Lagoon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Ob-3 Warden Digester Lagoon, located in Warden, Washington, is a private-owned facility regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology.


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Summary

Completed in 2018, this Earth type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 6.3 square miles, the lagoon serves a primary purpose other than flood control or irrigation, making it a unique water resource management structure in the region.

The dam has a high hazard potential but was assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of October 2018. While the last inspection date is unknown, the facility is subject to regular inspections every five years. Despite the potential risks associated with its operation, the lagoon meets regulatory guidelines and does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared as of the latest data available. Climate and water resource enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulations, and emergency response may find Ob-3 Warden Digester Lagoon to be an intriguing case study in sustainable water management practices.

In the context of climate change and increasing water scarcity concerns, understanding the design, operation, and regulatory oversight of structures like the Ob-3 Warden Digester Lagoon is crucial. As a key component of the water infrastructure in Grant County, Washington, this lagoon plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. With its unique purpose and high hazard potential, the facility serves as a focal point for discussions on balancing water management needs with environmental protection and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

2018

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Drainage Area

6.3

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

20.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.