Schweitzer Dam and Reservoir, located in Okanogan, Washington, was completed in 1914 and serves as a vital water resource for irrigation purposes in the region.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 17.66 feet and has a structural height of 15.26 feet, with a capacity to store up to 74 acre-feet of water. The reservoir is fed by a tributary of Aeneas Creek and covers a drainage area of 4.94 square miles.
Despite its historical significance, Schweitzer Dam and Reservoir faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment and hazard potential. The dam has been rated as having a poor condition, with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection was conducted in July 2018, and the dam is subject to state regulation and enforcement by the Washington Dept of Ecology.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Schweitzer Dam and Reservoir represents a fascinating intersection of historical engineering, environmental stewardship, and the critical role of water management in sustaining agricultural activities. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam, its importance in providing irrigation water to the surrounding area underscores the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary of Aeneas Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17.66 |
Drainage Area |
4.94 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
15.26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Okanogan River Near Tonasket
|
6260cfs |
Okanogan River At Oroville
|
347cfs |
Similkameen River Near Nighthawk
|
5880cfs |
Omak Creek Near Omak
|
7cfs |
Okanogan River At Malott
|
6590cfs |
Andrews Creek Near Mazama
|
17cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Aeneas Lake - WDFW
|
||
Sinlahekin Wildlife Area
|
||
Blue Lake North - WDFW
|
||
Blue Lake South - WDFW
|
||
Sinlahekin Creek - WDFW
|
||
Forde Lake - WDFW
|