Curtis Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Curtis Dam, located in Amboy, Washington, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1978 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 13.7 feet, the dam has a NID storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. The normal storage capacity is 19.7 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area.

The dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment in March 2018 deeming its condition as satisfactory. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is well-maintained and meets regulatory guidelines for emergency action preparedness. With a drainage area of 1.37 square miles and a maximum discharge of 32 cubic feet per second, Curtis Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Clark County, Washington.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find Curtis Dam to be a fascinating structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital component of the local water management system. With its impressive storage capacity and regulatory oversight, the dam represents a balance between human intervention and environmental stewardship in maintaining a sustainable water supply for the region. Its strategic location and design make it an essential asset for the community, highlighting the importance of responsible dam management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1978

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1.37

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

13.7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.