Bliss Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pioneer Walker Dike
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Bliss, located in Gooding, Idaho, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility on the Snake River that was completed in 1950.
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Summary
With a dam height of 140 feet and a storage capacity of 8,415 acre-feet, Bliss plays a crucial role in water resource management and electricity generation in the region. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the facility is also used for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for visitors to enjoy.
The dam at Bliss is constructed of concrete and has a controlled spillway with a width of 216 feet. The facility has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the Idaho Department of Water Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the condition assessment is currently not available, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities in the event of an emergency.
Bliss serves as a key component of the water infrastructure in Idaho, contributing to the state's energy production and water supply management. With its strategic location on the Snake River and its significant storage capacity, Bliss plays a vital role in supporting both the local economy and the environment. As a site of high risk and high importance, the facility is closely monitored and regulated to ensure its continued operation and safety for all stakeholders involved.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
140 |
River Or Stream |
Snake River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
255 |
Hydraulic Height |
134 |
Drainage Area |
35800 |
Nid Storage |
8415 |
Structural Height |
140 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
140 |
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.
Bliss
Snake River