Hansen Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Located in Moscow, Idaho, the Hansen dam serves as a crucial water resource structure in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and spans 190 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 3 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is labeled as "Other," indicating its versatile utility in managing water resources in the region. The dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

With a significant hazard potential, the Hansen dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level, indicating the importance of careful monitoring and maintenance. Despite this, the dam is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2017. It features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 6 feet, ready to handle any excess water flow. The surrounding area, including the Missouri Flat Creek, benefits from the dam's presence in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks.

Overall, Hansen dam stands as a reliable water management structure in Latah County, Idaho, playing a vital role in regulating water flow and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. With its history of service since the 1970s, the dam continues to uphold its purpose effectively, supported by state regulation and regular inspections. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like the Hansen dam become increasingly essential in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

SPRING MISSOURI FLAT CREEK

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.