Bacchus Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bacchus Dam, located in Franklin, Washington, is a private irrigation dam completed in 1973 with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural use.
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Summary
Designed by JUB Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 2000 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated in Congressional District 04 and managed by private owners, Bacchus Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. Despite lacking a formal emergency action plan and inundation maps, the dam meets state guidelines and is equipped with emergency contacts for any potential risks. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains an essential water resource for the local community and plays a vital role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Bacchus Dam for its contribution to irrigation and water management in Washington. Its strategic location, design, and operational efficiency highlight the importance of private infrastructure in supporting sustainable water use and agricultural practices. With its low hazard potential and state regulation, Bacchus Dam serves as a model for responsible water resource management and underscores the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Bacchus Dam
Ringold Boat Launch