Avalon Fruit Dam 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Avalon Fruit Dam 2 Avalon Fruit Dam 4
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Avalon Fruit Dam 3, located in Sunnyside, Washington, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology.
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Summary
This earthen dam, completed in 1985, spans 210 feet in length and has a hydraulic height of 16.5 feet, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation along Washout Creek. With a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 15 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the Yakima County region.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Avalon Fruit Dam 3 is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of its last inspection in April 2015. The dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While there are no spillways or outlet gates associated with the dam, its presence signifies a vital water management infrastructure that contributes to the sustainability of the local ecosystem and economy.
As a key component of the irrigation network in the area, Avalon Fruit Dam 3 exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location along Washout Creek, its height of 17 feet, and its stone core design showcase the critical role dams play in sustaining agriculture and water supply in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the regulatory oversight, maintenance practices, and risk management measures associated with dams like Avalon Fruit Dam 3 is crucial in ensuring their continued effectiveness and safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
210 |
River Or Stream |
Washout Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Nid Storage |
18 |
Structural Height |
16.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Granger Drain At Granger
|
13cfs |
Yakima River At Mabton
|
19900cfs |
Columbia River Below Priest Rapids Dam
|
115000cfs |
Yakima River Above Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
11300cfs |
Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
164cfs |
Yakima River At Kiona
|
16300cfs |
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.
Avalon Fruit Dam 3