West Fork Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Failor Lake Dam Sea Horse Ranch Dike
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
West Fork Dam, located in Hoquiam, Washington, is a gravity-type dam built in 1956 for water supply purposes on the West Fork of the Hoquiam River.
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Summary
The dam has a structural height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, with a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. Despite its small size, the dam is state-regulated by the Washington Dept of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, but its condition assessment is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in August 2018. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in July 2014, and while details on its current status are not provided, the dam's risk management measures and adherence to guidelines are not specified. With its primary purpose being water supply, West Fork Dam plays a crucial role in providing a reliable source of water for the surrounding area, highlighting the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and regulatory compliance.
Managed by local government authorities, West Fork Dam serves as a critical infrastructure in Grays Harbor County, Washington. Its location within Congressional District 06, represented by Derek Kilmer, reflects the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in overseeing the dam's operations and ensuring its functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on West Fork Dam offers insights into the intricate network of dams and reservoirs that contribute to water management and conservation efforts in the region, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices to safeguard these vital resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
80 |
River Or Stream |
West Fk. Hoquiam River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
8.2 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Humptulips River Below Hwy 101 Nr Humptulips
|
7150cfs |
Wynoochee River Above Black Creek Nr Montesano
|
8720cfs |
Wynoochee River Above Save Creek Near Aberdeen
|
6820cfs |
Satsop River Near Satsop
|
10800cfs |
Wynoochee River Near Grisdale
|
4960cfs |
Quinault River At Quinault Lake
|
19600cfs |
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.
West Fork Dam
Failor Lake Road, Hoquiam