Upper Salmon Falls Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Salmon Falls Dam is classified as low hazard in Idaho. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 37% in ID) |
| Dam Length | 1,620 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 50 acres |
| Drainage Area | 32,200 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 48,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | ID00224 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Idaho Power Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Upper Salmon Falls B-Plant Forebay
Twin Falls, ID
Low Hazard 70 ftUpper Salmon Falls A-Plant Diversion Dam
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Low Hazard 9 ftUpper Salmon Falls A-Plant & Forebay
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Low Hazard 85 ftLower Salmon
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High Hazard 110 ftW-Drain
Gooding, ID
Significant Hazard 17 ftRavenscroft Diversion
Gooding, ID
Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Salmon Falls Dam?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Upper Salmon Falls Dam?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam is owned by Idaho Power Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Salmon Falls Dam built?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Upper Salmon Falls Dam?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Salmon Falls Dam?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Upper Salmon Falls Dam last inspected?
Upper Salmon Falls Dam was last inspected on September 20, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.