Culmback
Key Takeaway
Culmback is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 Height | 262 ft (taller than 85.9% in WA) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 193.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 153.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,870 acres |
| Drainage Area | 68 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 57,132 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | WA00208 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
PUD #1 of Snohomish County, WA
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Culmback?
Culmback 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 Culmback?
Culmback is owned by PUD #1 of Snohomish County, WA (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Culmback built?
Culmback was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Culmback?
Culmback serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Culmback?
Culmback has a dam height of 262 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Culmback last inspected?
Culmback was last inspected on May 14, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.