Bullard Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Bullard Dam in Bellingham, Washington, is a privately owned gravity dam that was completed in 1969 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, located on Tr-Padden Creek, has a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 8 feet, with a total length of 81 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 19 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 39 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 6.6 acres and draining a 0.95 square mile watershed.
Managed by the Washington Department of Ecology, Bullard Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has a high hazard potential but was found to be in satisfactory condition during the last assessment in May 2018. The emergency action plan was last revised in November 2020, although details regarding its compliance with guidelines and the preparation of inundation maps are unspecified. With a maximum discharge capacity of 390 cubic feet per second, Bullard Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and ensuring public safety during emergencies.
Situated in Congressional District 02, Washington, Bullard Dam is overseen by Representative Rick Larsen. Despite not being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource in Whatcom County, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With its unique multi-arch core design and rock and soil foundation, Bullard Dam stands as a testament to effective water management and the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both safety and enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
81 |
River Or Stream |
Tr-Padden Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.95 |
Nid Storage |
39 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cedar Lake Camp
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Pine Lake Camp
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Larrabee State Park
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Lizard Lake Camp
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Northwest Trail site
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Bullard Dam
Galbriath Loop Bellingham