Hardisty Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hardisty, also known as Dougal Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Owyhee County, Idaho.


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Summary

Built in 1914, this earth dam stands at 30.9 feet high and has a storage capacity of 789 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 75.3 acres and is fed by Cherry Creek and Dougherty Creek, making it a vital source of water for the region.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hardisty is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway is of the controlled type with a width of 18 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 550 cubic feet per second. Despite being assessed as in fair condition as of July 2020, the reservoir is classified as having a significant hazard potential and a very high risk level.

With its historic significance and crucial role in water management, Hardisty serves as a key asset in the region's water resource infrastructure. Its presence highlights the importance of proper regulation and maintenance of dams to mitigate risks and ensure sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate. As a site of both natural beauty and engineered resilience, Hardisty stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

30.9

River Or Stream

CHERRY CREEK DOUGHERTY CREEK

Surface Area

75.3

Hydraulic Height

26.2

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

789

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.