Little Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Little Valley in Idaho is a privately owned dam located on Little Valley Creek near Grays Lake.


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Summary

Built in 1897, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 1322 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and irrigation, with a controlled spillway to manage water discharge.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Little Valley Dam has a fair condition assessment as of June 2018. The risk assessment for this structure is rated as very high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources and undergoes inspections every 5 years to uphold state regulatory standards.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Bonneville, Idaho, can appreciate the historical significance and practical utility of Little Valley Dam. With its strategic location and purposeful design, this structure not only contributes to local water management but also serves as a reminder of the vital role dams play in sustaining ecosystems and supporting human activities in the region.

Year Completed

1897

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

22.7

River Or Stream

LITTLE VALLEY CREEK GRAYS LAKE

Surface Area

173

Hydraulic Height

19.1

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

1322

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.