Lower Salmon Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Lower Salmon is a private hydroelectric dam located in Gooding, Idaho, along the Snake River.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this concrete gravity dam stands at 110 feet tall and spans 1200 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 10,900 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lower Salmon is subject to state regulation and inspection to ensure operational safety and compliance.
The dam's spillway, controlled and 312 feet wide, helps manage water levels and prevent overflow during peak discharge events. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, emergency preparedness and risk management measures are crucial for the surrounding community's safety. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in April 2021, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in case of emergencies.
Lower Salmon's presence not only contributes to the region's energy supply but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors. As a key part of Idaho's water resource infrastructure, the dam exemplifies the balance between harnessing natural resources for power generation and ensuring public safety and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and vital role in the local ecosystem, Lower Salmon remains a significant feature in Idaho's water management landscape.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
110 |
River Or Stream |
Snake River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
748 |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
1965 |
Nid Storage |
10900 |
Structural Height |
54.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
110 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lower Salmon
Snake River
Box Canyon