Binford Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Binford Reservoir Dam, located in La Center, Washington, serves as a vital irrigation source in the region, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.6 acres.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, primarily designed to harness the waters of Tr-Brezee Creek for agricultural purposes. The dam is privately owned and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, ensuring state oversight for inspection, enforcement, and permitting to maintain its structural integrity.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Binford Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within Clark County. The dam's stone core and soil foundation contribute to its stability, while the surrounding area benefits from its controlled water release capabilities. The dam's location in Congressional District 03, represented by Jaime Herrera Beutler, highlights the importance of its maintenance and operation for both agricultural and environmental interests in the region.

As a key infrastructure for irrigation purposes, Binford Reservoir Dam underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in Washington state. With a history of serving the local community for nearly seven decades, the dam's significance lies not only in its practical function but also in its potential role in adapting to changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for sustainable practices, Binford Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing dialogue surrounding water infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

348

River Or Stream

Tr-Brezee Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.6

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.