Cowlitz Falls

About Cowlitz Falls

The primary purpose of Cowlitz Falls is hydroelectric. The dam generates hydroelectric power by channeling water through turbines, converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. The dam is owned by Pud #1 Of Lewis County, Wa (public utility). It impounds the Cowlitz River.

The dam stands 145 feet tall and stretches 700 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 700 acres, has a storage capacity of 11,000 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 1,000 square miles. Completed in 1994, the structure is 32 years old.

This dam has a significant hazard potential classification, meaning that a failure could cause significant economic damage — flooding roads, bridges, or property downstream — but is not expected to result in loss of life. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. An emergency action plan is in place for this dam. The most recent inspection on record was 09/07/2022.

At 145 feet, this dam is taller than 99% of all dams in the United States.

Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.