Rocky Reach

Columbia River· Chelan, Washington· Built 1962· Gravity· 118 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Flood Risk Reduction Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Rocky Reach is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 118 ft (taller than 65.2% in WA)
Dam Length3,820 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage390.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage382.0K acre-ft
Surface Area9,810 acres
Drainage Area87,800 sq mi
Max Discharge1,200,000 cfs
Year Completed1962 (64 years old)
NID IDWA00086

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: June 14, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

PUD #1 of Chelan County, WA

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rocky Reach?

Rocky Reach 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 Rocky Reach?

Rocky Reach is owned by PUD #1 of Chelan County, WA (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rocky Reach built?

Rocky Reach was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Rocky Reach?

Rocky Reach serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Rocky Reach?

Rocky Reach has a dam height of 118 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 Rocky Reach last inspected?

Rocky Reach was last inspected on June 14, 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.