Dionysus Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bacchus Dam Ringold Springs Fish Pond
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dionysus Dam, located in Franklin, Washington, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1973 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Designed by JUB Engineers, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 17.7 feet and a structural height of 12.4 feet, with a length of 2284 feet. It has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Dionysus Dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's location in Congressional District 04, Washington, under the representation of Dan Newhouse (R), highlights its significance in the local water resource management. With a normal storage capacity of 27.5 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.3 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting the irrigation needs of the surrounding areas.
With its earth core and stone foundation, Dionysus Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management in the region, demonstrating the importance of private ownership in sustaining water resources for agricultural activities. As climate change continues to impact water availability, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Dionysus become essential in ensuring a reliable water supply for agricultural and environmental sustainability.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
2284 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Structural Height |
12.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yakima River At Kiona
|
27000cfs |
Columbia River Below Priest Rapids Dam
|
123000cfs |
Walla Walla River Near Touchet
|
1330cfs |
Umatilla River Near Umatilla
|
713cfs |
Crab Creek Near Beverly
|
160cfs |
Yakima River At Mabton
|
32100cfs |
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.
Dionysus Dam
Ringold Boat Launch