Hells Canyon Dam

SNAKE RIVER· Wallowa, Oregon· Built 1968· Concrete· 320 ft tall
High Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Public Utility

Physical Details

Dam Height 320 ft (taller than 99% in OR)
Dam Length1,000 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage200.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage183.0K acre-ft
Surface Area2,412 acres
Drainage Area73,300 sq mi
Max Discharge210,000 cfs
Year Completed1968 (58 years old)
NID IDOR00250

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OWRD

Ownership

IDAHO POWER COMPANY

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hells Canyon Dam?

Hells Canyon Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Who owns Hells Canyon Dam?

Hells Canyon Dam is owned by IDAHO POWER COMPANY (Public Utility).

When was Hells Canyon Dam built?

Hells Canyon Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 years old.

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.