Des Moines Creek Stormwater Detention Da Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Des Moines Creek Stormwater Detention Dam, also known as the Des Moines Creek Regional Detention Dam, is a vital infrastructure owned by the local government in Des Moines, Washington.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, with a length of 950 feet. Designed primarily for flood risk reduction, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.1 acres.
Located on Des Moines Creek in King County, Washington, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a high hazard potential, it is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and satisfactory condition. The Washington Department of Ecology oversees the state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam, emphasizing its importance in water resource and climate management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Des Moines Creek Stormwater Detention Dam serves as a key component in flood risk reduction efforts in Des Moines, Washington. Its strategic location and design contribute to the protection of the community from potential inundation, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events. As a state-regulated dam with a satisfactory condition assessment, it stands as a testament to effective water management practices and serves as a model for resilient infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
950 |
River Or Stream |
Des Moines Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.25 |
Nid Storage |
21 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill Creek Near Mouth At Orillia
|
44cfs |
Spring Brook Creek At Orillia
|
7cfs |
Duwamish River At Golf Course At Tukwila
|
6700cfs |
Mill Creek At Earthworks Park At Kent
|
8cfs |
Cedar River At Renton
|
5160cfs |
Green River Near Auburn
|
10100cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Point Robinson Campground
|
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Dash Point State Park
|
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Dash Point Campground
|
Des Moines Creek Stormwater Detention Da
Lake Fenwick Trail Kent