Oxbow

SNAKE RIVER COLUMBIA RIVER· Adams, Idaho· Built 1961· 145 ft tall
High Hazard Grade Stabilization Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Oxbow is classified as high hazard in Idaho. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is grade stabilization. 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 145 ft (taller than 96.4% in ID)
Dam Length960 ft
Normal Storage58.2K acre-ft
Surface Area1,150 acres
Drainage Area73,000 sq mi
Max Discharge300,000 cfs
Year Completed1961 (65 years old)
NID IDID00057

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: July 28, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDWR

Ownership

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Oxbow?

Oxbow 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 Oxbow?

Oxbow is owned by information not available (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Oxbow built?

Oxbow was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Oxbow?

Oxbow serves the following purposes: Grade Stabilization. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Oxbow?

Oxbow has a dam height of 145 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 Oxbow last inspected?

Oxbow was last inspected on July 28, 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.