Telegraph Road Stormwater Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Telegraph Road Stormwater Detention Dam, also known as the Telegraph Road Detention Pond, is a key infrastructure owned by the Local Government in Bellingham, Washington.
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Summary
Completed in 1988, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the area, particularly in managing water flow from the nearby Spring Creek. With a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community from potential flooding events.
Situated in Whatcom County, Washington, the Telegraph Road Stormwater Detention Dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections by the Washington Dept of Ecology. With a hazard potential rated as "High" and a fair condition assessment as of July 2018, this dam remains a vital structure for protecting the surrounding area from flood risks. Despite its relatively small surface area of 0.1 acres, the dam can handle a maximum discharge of 800 cubic feet per second, showcasing its capacity to effectively manage stormwater runoff during heavy rainfall events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Telegraph Road Stormwater Detention Dam serves as a noteworthy example of local government-led flood risk reduction efforts. With its strategic location and design, this dam not only helps to mitigate potential flood hazards but also demonstrates the importance of maintaining and inspecting critical infrastructure to ensure the safety and resilience of communities in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1988 |
River Or Stream |
Spring Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.66 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
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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Telegraph Road Stormwater Detention Dam
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