Steilacoom Lake Dam

Chambers Creek· Pierce, Washington· Built 1989· Gravity·
High Hazard Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Steilacoom Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Washington. It was completed in 1989 and is 37 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 Length120 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage7.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.6K acre-ft
Surface Area317 acres
Drainage Area62 sq mi
Max Discharge1,980 cfs
Year Completed1989 (37 years old)
NID IDWA00139

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: November 15, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Washington Dept of Ecology

Ownership

Lakewood City

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Steilacoom Lake Dam?

Steilacoom Lake 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 Steilacoom Lake Dam?

Steilacoom Lake Dam is owned by Lakewood City (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Steilacoom Lake Dam built?

Steilacoom Lake Dam was completed in 1989, making it 37 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 Steilacoom Lake Dam?

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

When was Steilacoom Lake Dam last inspected?

Steilacoom Lake Dam was last inspected on November 15, 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.