Stemilt Equalizing Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Malaga, Washington, Stemilt Equalizing Reservoir is a vital infrastructure owned by a Public Utility entity.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1985, serves primarily for irrigation purposes, providing a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet of water. Stemilt Equalizing Reservoir is situated along the Tr-Stemilt Creek-Offstream, with a high hazard potential but currently maintaining a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2014.

With a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a surface area of 4.6 acres, Stemilt Equalizing Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and resource allocation in the Chelan County area. Managed and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology, this earth dam structure ensures the efficient distribution of water for agricultural needs in the region. The reservoir's strategic location and design contribute to its effectiveness in optimizing water storage and discharge, with a maximum discharge capacity of 19 cubic feet per second.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Stemilt Equalizing Reservoir remains a key asset in maintaining water security and sustainability in the region. With regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures, this reservoir stands as a reliable and essential infrastructure for managing water supply and irrigation demands in Chelan County, Washington. Its role in mitigating water scarcity and supporting agricultural activities underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1985

River Or Stream

Tr-Stemilt Creek-Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

43

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.