Little Goose Lock and Dam

SNAKE RIVER· Columbia, Washington· Built 1970· Concrete·

Key Takeaway

Little Goose Lock and Dam is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 Length2,655 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage565.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage565.2K acre-ft
Surface Area10,025 acres
Drainage Area103,900 sq mi
Max Discharge850,000 cfs
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDWA00331

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: May 1, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Walla Walla District

Federal Government

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Little Goose Lock and Dam?

Little Goose Lock and 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 Little Goose Lock and Dam?

Little Goose Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Walla Walla District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Little Goose Lock and Dam built?

Little Goose Lock and Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Little Goose Lock and Dam?

Little Goose Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Little Goose Lock and Dam last inspected?

Little Goose Lock and Dam was last inspected on May 1, 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.