Deadwood

DEADWOOD RIVER SOUTH FORK PAYETTE RIVER· Valley, Idaho· Built 1931· Concrete· 143 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Deadwood is classified as high hazard in Idaho. It was completed in 1931 and is 95 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 143 ft (taller than 96.1% in ID)
Dam Length749 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage191.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage162.0K acre-ft
Surface Area3,800 acres
Drainage Area111 sq mi
Max Discharge11,300 cfs
Year Completed1931 (95 years old)
NID IDID00284

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: September 23, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDWR

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Deadwood?

Deadwood 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 Deadwood?

Deadwood is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Deadwood built?

Deadwood was completed in 1931, making it 95 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 Deadwood?

Deadwood serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Deadwood?

Deadwood has a dam height of 143 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 Deadwood last inspected?

Deadwood was last inspected on September 23, 2020. 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.