Clear Lake Dam

Tr-Stemilt Creek to Columbia R· Chelan, Washington· Built 1888· Earth·
High Hazard Irrigation Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Clear Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage60 acre-ft
Normal Storage40 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge50 cfs
Year Completed1888 (138 years old)
NID IDWA00230

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 22, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Washington Dept of Ecology

Ownership

Stemilt Irrigation District

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Clear Lake Dam?

Clear Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Clear Lake Dam?

Clear Lake Dam is owned by Stemilt Irrigation District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Clear Lake Dam built?

Clear Lake Dam was completed in 1888, making it 138 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Clear Lake Dam?

Clear Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Clear Lake Dam last inspected?

Clear Lake Dam was last inspected on August 22, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.