Summary
Built in 1926, this earth dam stands at a height of 28.7 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 550 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
The reservoir, situated on North Fork Castle Creek and Deep Creek, covers a surface area of 50 acres and serves multiple purposes, although its primary function is classified as 'Other'. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Sommerville poses a moderate risk level of 3 out of 5. Despite its age, the dam continues to be a vital water resource for the surrounding area, supporting local agricultural and ecological needs.
Managed by private owners, Sommerville operates with state oversight and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 14 feet. Its risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of the community. As a historical landmark in the region, this dam remains an essential component of water resource management in Idaho's Owyhee County.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
28.7 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK CASTLE CREEK DEEP CREEK |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
550 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ef Owyhee River At Crutcher Crossing
|
43cfs |
Owyhee River Nr Rome Or
|
156cfs |
Bruneau River Nr Hot Spring Id
|
95cfs |
Owyhee R Nr Mountain City
|
23cfs |
Snake River Nr Murphy Id
|
6680cfs |
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.
Sommerville
Nickel Creek
Current Creek
Deep Creek
Corral Creek