Selah Naches Ranch Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Selah Naches Ranch Reservoir in Yakima, Washington, is a private irrigation reservoir designed by JUB Engineers and completed in 2004.


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Summary

This offstream reservoir on Buckskin Slough has a storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.1 acres, serving the primary purpose of irrigation. The dam, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, is classified as an earth dam with a rockfill core and soil foundation, standing at a structural height of 20 feet.

The reservoir, located in Congressional District 04 and owned privately, is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology. It has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in fair condition. The last inspection in May 2018 showed that the reservoir meets state regulatory standards and is inspected regularly. With a drainage area of 0.08 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 780 cubic feet per second, Selah Naches Ranch Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region and managing water resources effectively.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Selah Naches Ranch Reservoir an intriguing case study in private irrigation infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of engineering, agriculture, and environmental regulations. The reservoir's location, design, and operational details provide valuable insights into sustainable water management practices in arid regions like Yakima, Washington. As a vital component of the local water supply system, this reservoir serves as a testament to the importance of efficient water storage and distribution in mitigating the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity and ecosystem health.

Year Completed

2004

River Or Stream

Offstream - Buckskin Slough

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.1

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

32

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.