Twin Falls Intake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Located on the Snake River in Twin Falls, Idaho, the Twin Falls Intake Dam is a concrete gravity dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1935 by designer EBASCO, this privately-owned structure stands at a height of 34 feet and has a length of 203 feet. With a storage capacity of 955 acre-feet and a surface area of 85 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and recreation in the area.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Twin Falls Intake Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection to ensure its safe operation and maintenance. While the dam has a low hazard potential, a high risk assessment indicates the need for robust risk management measures. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable hydroelectric power to the region and remains a key component of the local water infrastructure.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Twin Falls Intake Dam a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering and its ongoing contribution to sustainable energy production. With its strategic location on the Snake River and state-of-the-art design for the time, this dam exemplifies the intersection of technology, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the management of water resources.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

203

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Snake River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

19000

Nid Storage

955

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.