Winder Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Winder is a private irrigation dam located in Franklin, Idaho, along the Mink Creek and Bear River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 57.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a fair condition assessment as of November 2020. Despite the high risk associated with Winder, emergency action plans and inundation maps have not been prepared or updated recently. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", there is a need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. The dam's spillway type is noted as "None", indicating a potential area of concern for water release during high water events.

Overall, Winder presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a key infrastructure for irrigation in the region, it is crucial to prioritize safety protocols and regular inspections to prevent any potential disasters. With its location in a high-risk area and the absence of certain emergency preparedness measures, Winder serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in balancing water resource management with environmental and public safety concerns.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

57.1

River Or Stream

MINK CREEK BEAR RIVER

Surface Area

96

Hydraulic Height

53.1

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

2000

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

57
       
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.