Engelsma Dairy Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Engelsma Dairy Lagoon Dam, located in Lynden, Washington, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 7 feet and spans a length of 2180 feet. With a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet, it primarily serves the purposes of irrigation and other agricultural needs, while also contributing to the overall water management system in the region.
Owned privately, Engelsma Dairy Lagoon Dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment highlight the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness measures. Despite its associated risks, the dam has proven to be a vital asset for water storage and management in the Whatcom County area, particularly within the Fishtrap Creek watershed.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Engelsma Dairy Lagoon Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. Its role in supporting agricultural activities and mitigating potential flood risks underscores the need for continual monitoring and maintenance to safeguard both the environment and surrounding communities. With its strategic location and crucial functions, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the Pacific Northwest region.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
2180 |
River Or Stream |
Off Channel, Fishtrap Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Engelsma Dairy Lagoon Dam
Guide Meridian Road Whatcom County