Metaline Falls Wastewater Lagoon No 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Metaline Falls Wastewater Lagoon No 3, located in Metaline Falls, Washington, is a crucial water resource infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This offstream lagoon, completed in 1963, serves as a wastewater treatment facility with a primary purpose of handling wastewater from the surrounding area. With a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet and a capacity of 22 acre-feet, the lagoon plays a significant role in managing water quality in the Pend Oreille River watershed.
Despite its importance, Metaline Falls Wastewater Lagoon No 3 is facing challenges. A recent inspection in 2019 rated its condition as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and upgrades. The lagoon's hazard potential is deemed significant, further emphasizing the urgency of addressing any structural issues to ensure its continued functionality. With a drainage area of 0.02 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 1 cubic foot per second, the lagoon's ability to effectively treat wastewater and protect water quality in the region is crucial for the community and environment.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and improvement of infrastructure like Metaline Falls Wastewater Lagoon No 3 are essential for ensuring water quality and availability. Local and state agencies must prioritize the upkeep of such facilities to mitigate risks and safeguard the health of ecosystems and communities relying on these water resources. Collaborative efforts and investments in sustainable water management practices will be key in addressing the challenges posed by aging water infrastructure and a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
990 |
River Or Stream |
Offstream - Pend Oreille |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Structural Height |
10.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Outlet Creek Near Metaline Falls
|
19cfs |
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione
|
27700cfs |
Columbia River At International Boundary
|
85600cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
1350cfs |
Colville River At Kettle Falls
|
166cfs |
Boundary Creek Nr Porthill Id
|
312cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Grandview Boat-In Campsite
|
||
Mill Pond Campground
|
||
Mill Pond
|
||
Sullivan Lake
|
||
West Sullivan Campground
|
||
West Sullivan
|
Metaline Falls Wastewater Lagoon No 3
Linton Street, Metaline