Snoqualmie Falls
Key Takeaway
Snoqualmie Falls is classified as low hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 19 ft (taller than 25% in WA) |
| Dam Length | 253 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 566 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 566 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 103 acres |
| Drainage Area | 400 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 10,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | WA00295 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Puget Sound Energy
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Snoqualmie Falls?
Snoqualmie Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Snoqualmie Falls?
Snoqualmie Falls is owned by Puget Sound Energy (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Snoqualmie Falls built?
Snoqualmie Falls was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Snoqualmie Falls?
Snoqualmie Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Snoqualmie Falls?
Snoqualmie Falls has a dam height of 19 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 Snoqualmie Falls last inspected?
Snoqualmie Falls was last inspected on May 11, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.