Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin
Key Takeaway
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 27 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | WA01347 |
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
Bellingham City Public Works Dept
Local Government
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin?
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin 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 Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin?
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin is owned by Bellingham City Public Works Dept (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin built?
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin?
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin last inspected?
Happy Valley Stormwater Detention Basin was last inspected on June 6, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.