Colchuck Lake Dam

Colchuck Creek· Chelan, Washington· Built 1930· Rockfill·
High Hazard Irrigation Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Colchuck Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 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 Length68 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage1.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.1K acre-ft
Surface Area78 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1930 (96 years old)
NID IDWA00227

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: November 3, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Washington Dept of Ecology

Ownership

Icicle & Peshastin Irrigation District

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Colchuck Lake Dam?

Colchuck 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 Colchuck Lake Dam?

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

When was Colchuck Lake Dam built?

Colchuck Lake Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Colchuck Lake Dam?

Colchuck 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 Colchuck Lake Dam last inspected?

Colchuck Lake Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2022. 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.