Den Hoed Dam No 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: March 3, 2026
Den Hoed Dam No 1 is a privately-owned structure located in Sunnyside, Washington, along Sulphur Creek.
Summary
Completed in 1999, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 15 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.5 acres, with a drainage area of 17.9 square miles.
Despite its importance for irrigation, Den Hoed Dam No 1 presents some concerning aspects. Classified with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam last underwent inspection in October 2015. The Washington Department of Ecology regulates the dam, overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its location in Yakima County and proximity to the Seattle District, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Den Hoed Dam No 1 represents a significant piece of infrastructure in the state of Washington. As a key component in the local irrigation system, the dam's condition and maintenance are essential for ensuring water supply reliability and mitigating potential risks. With its association with Sulphur Creek and its role in serving agricultural needs, Den Hoed Dam No 1 underscores the intricate relationship between water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the Pacific Northwest.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
780 |
River Or Stream |
Sulphur Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
17.9 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yakima River At Mabton
|
4700cfs |
Granger Drain At Granger
|
19cfs |
Columbia River Below Priest Rapids Dam
|
136000cfs |
Yakima River At Kiona
|
3230cfs |
Yakima River Above Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
1970cfs |
Ahtanum Creek At Union Gap
|
70cfs |
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.
Den Hoed Dam No 1