Cabinet Gorge
Key Takeaway
Cabinet Gorge is classified as high hazard in Idaho. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 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 | 166 ft (taller than 97.2% in ID) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 104.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 104.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,203 acres |
| Drainage Area | 22,073 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 260,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1952 (74 years old) |
| NID ID | ID00222 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Avista Corporation
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cabinet Gorge?
Cabinet Gorge 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 Cabinet Gorge?
Cabinet Gorge is owned by Avista Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cabinet Gorge built?
Cabinet Gorge was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Cabinet Gorge?
Cabinet Gorge serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cabinet Gorge?
Cabinet Gorge has a dam height of 166 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 Cabinet Gorge last inspected?
Cabinet Gorge was last inspected on July 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.