Coldwater Debris Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Coldwater Debris Dam, located in Castle Rock, Washington, was completed in 1981 by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily serve as a flood control structure on the North Fork of Coldwater Creek.


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Summary

This federal-owned earth dam stands at an impressive height of 200 feet and has a hydraulic height of 170 feet, with a length of 4200 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 78,700 acre-feet, with a spillway width of 40 feet for uncontrolled release of excess water.

Managed by the Forest Service, Coldwater Debris Dam is crucial in mitigating flood risks in the region, although its hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined and not rated, respectively. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a potential for adverse consequences in the event of a failure. While the dam has not been regularly inspected since 2011, its emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines are unknown, raising concerns about the readiness for potential emergencies.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Coldwater Debris Dam to be a significant structure in flood management on the North Fork of Coldwater Creek. As a key federal-owned asset, the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness are essential considerations for ensuring the safety and protection of surrounding communities and the environment in the face of changing climate conditions and extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

4200

Dam Height

200

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK OF COLDWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

170

Nid Storage

78700

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

200
       
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.