Hawkins Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 31, 2025

Hawkins, a private water resource in Idaho, is a crucial component of the state's irrigation infrastructure.


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Summary

Built in 1870, this earth dam on Hawkins Creek and Marsh Creek has a height of 35.1 feet and a storage capacity of 880 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Hawkins is subject to frequent inspections by the Idaho Department of Water Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hawkins features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide gate outlet for water release. The dam's proximity to Marsh Center in Bannock County makes it a key resource for agricultural irrigation in the region. Its moderate risk assessment of 3 highlights the importance of ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the continued functionality of Hawkins for water supply and flood control purposes.

Located within the Walla Walla District, Hawkins plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in Idaho. With a drainage area of 26.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 418 cubic feet per second, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, maintaining and enhancing infrastructure like Hawkins becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water resource management in the state.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

35.1

River Or Stream

HAWKINS CREEK MARSH CREEK

Surface Area

54

Hydraulic Height

29.1

Drainage Area

26.6

Nid Storage

880

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.