Little (North Crane Creek Dam) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Soulen Main Dam Soulen Auxiliary Dike
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Little (North Crane Creek Dam) is a historic structure located in Indian Valley, Idaho, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Built in 1895, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21.2 feet. It impounds water from North Crane Creek and Crane Creek, providing storage for irrigation purposes. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 224 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres.
Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition as of the last assessment in July 2017. It has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a very high risk level. The spillway type is controlled with a width of 35 feet, and the outlet gates are slide gates. The dam is owned privately and is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources. The inspection frequency is every four years, with the last inspection conducted in July 2017. This structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area and provides essential water for irrigation purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering feat of the Little (North Crane Creek Dam). Located in a picturesque setting in Washington County, Idaho, this dam serves as a vital component of the local irrigation system. With a long history dating back to the late 19th century, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water storage and distribution for agricultural purposes in the region. Its fair condition and regular inspections ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like the Little Dam become even more essential for sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1895 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH CRANE CREEK CRANE CREEK |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.2 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
224 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nf Payette River Nr Banks Id
|
450cfs |
Weiser River Nr Weiser Id
|
453cfs |
Crane Creek At Mouth Nr Weiser Id
|
7cfs |
Payette River Nr Emmett Id
|
2170cfs |
Payette River Nr Horseshoe Bend Id
|
1860cfs |
Middle Fork Payette River Nr Crouch Id
|
323cfs |
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.
Little (North Crane Creek Dam)