Wilson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wilson Lake, located in Jerome, Idaho, serves as a crucial water resource for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1909.


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Summary

Managed by a private owner, the dam stands at a height of 31.1 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 4600 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural activities in the surrounding area. The lake covers a surface area of 504 acres and is fed by the Snake River Canal, making it an essential source of water for the local community.

Despite its age, Wilson Lake remains in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2017, with a significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment. The dam has a drainage area of 135 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1278 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in managing water flow in the region. With its stone core and earth dam structure, Wilson Lake stands as a testament to early engineering efforts in water resource management and continues to play a vital role in sustaining agricultural activities in the area.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

31.1

River Or Stream

CANAL SNAKE RIVER

Surface Area

504

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

135

Nid Storage

4600

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.