Minidoka South Dike
Key Takeaway
Minidoka South Dike is classified as high hazard in Idaho. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 30.8% in ID) |
| Dam Length | 788 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 220.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 210.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12,400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15,625 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1906 (120 years old) |
| NID ID | ID00275 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Minidoka South Dike?
Minidoka South Dike 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 Minidoka South Dike?
Minidoka South Dike is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Minidoka South Dike built?
Minidoka South Dike was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Minidoka South Dike?
Minidoka South Dike serves the following purposes: Recreation, Hydroelectric, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Minidoka South Dike?
Minidoka South Dike has a dam height of 21 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 Minidoka South Dike last inspected?
Minidoka South Dike was last inspected on April 23, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.