Horsethief is a state-owned dam located in the Payette River region of Idaho, specifically in Valley County. Constructed in 1967, this earth dam with a stone core stands at a height of 52.6 feet and has a storage capacity of 4900 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes and is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 17 feet and is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 310 cubic feet per second. Horsethief Dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, but its overall condition is assessed as fair. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on their preparation and adherence to guidelines are not specified in the data. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a designated risk level of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

Horsethief Dam, situated along Horsethief Creek and Big Creek, plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and storage capacity, the dam contributes to irrigation, flood control, and water supply needs. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find Horsethief a captivating case study of dam infrastructure in Idaho, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight, maintenance, and risk assessment in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resource systems.