Elwick Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Elwick Dam, located in Clallam, Washington, was completed in 1962 and serves as a crucial water resource for the region.


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Summary

Nestled on Jimmycomelately Creek, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and has a structural height of 21 feet. With a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet, the dam primarily caters to irrigation and recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 5 acres for leisure activities. Despite its age, Elwick Dam has faced scrutiny for its poor condition assessment and high hazard potential, necessitating frequent inspections to ensure public safety.

Managed by a private entity, Elwick Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Ecology, ensuring compliance with state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location in Congressional District 06, with Representative Derek Kilmer at the helm, highlights the importance of its upkeep and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure. Although the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its operational efficiency and emergency preparedness remain key areas of concern for stakeholders involved in its management.

Despite its challenges, Elwick Dam continues to be a popular recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. With a serene setting and ample storage capacity for irrigation needs, the dam plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and economy. As discussions around risk assessment and management measures gain traction, the future of Elwick Dam hinges on collaborative efforts between regulatory agencies, private owners, and the community to safeguard this essential water resource for generations to come.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

425

River Or Stream

Jimmycomelately Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

33

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.