Swan Falls, located in Ada County, Idaho, is a private-owned hydroelectric dam on the Snake River with a primary purpose of generating electricity.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1901, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 88 feet and spans 1150 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 7425 acre-feet, Swan Falls also serves recreational purposes in addition to its hydroelectric function.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Swan Falls is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place. The dam has a spillway width of 434 feet and features 12 Tainter radial gates for water control. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Swan Falls is currently not available, reflecting the need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this critical water resource infrastructure.
Swan Falls plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in Idaho, serving as a key asset in the state's infrastructure. With its historic significance and continued operational importance, Swan Falls stands as a testament to the intersection of human innovation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable energy practices in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
88 |
River Or Stream |
Snake River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1525 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
41900 |
Nid Storage |
7425 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 12 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
88 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Swan Falls - Idaho Power
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Swan Falls Campground
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Celebration County Park
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