Keechelus
Key Takeaway
Keechelus is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 Height | 71 ft (taller than 54.3% in WA) |
| Dam Length | 6,550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 171.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 158.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,562 acres |
| Drainage Area | 55 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | WA00265 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Keechelus?
Keechelus 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 Keechelus?
Keechelus is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Keechelus built?
Keechelus was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Keechelus?
Keechelus serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Keechelus?
Keechelus has a dam height of 71 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 Keechelus last inspected?
Keechelus was last inspected on July 8, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.