Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 21.7 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 463 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 2917 cubic feet per second, Elk River serves multiple purposes beyond flood control, making it a critical water resource in the region. Despite its poor condition assessment, the dam has a low hazard potential and is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Idaho Department of Water Resources.
The dam's location in Clearwater County, Idaho, makes it a vital infrastructure for water management in the area. The dam's foundation is made of rock and soil, with a spillway width of 68 feet. With a drainage area of 42 square miles and a surface area of 61 acres, Elk River plays a significant role in water storage and management for local communities. Although it has not been significantly modified over the years, the dam continues to be monitored for its structural integrity and risk assessment, which is currently rated as very high.
Even with its aging infrastructure and poor condition assessment, Elk River remains a crucial water resource for the region, providing essential water management services and flood control measures. As a state-regulated dam, it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and water security. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1950s, Elk River continues to be a key player in the sustainable management of water resources in Idaho.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
21.7 |
River Or Stream |
ELK CREEK NORTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER |
Surface Area |
61 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.3 |
Drainage Area |
42 |
Nid Storage |
463 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clearwater River At Orofino Id
|
15600cfs |
Clearwater River Nr Peck Id
|
16900cfs |
Big Canyon Creek Nr Peck Id
|
99cfs |
Nf Clearwater River Nr Canyon Ranger Station Id
|
2660cfs |
Lolo Creek Nr Greer Id
|
771cfs |
St Maries River Nr Santa Id
|
820cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Partridge Creek Campground
|
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Little Meadow Creek ATV Camp
|
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Cold Springs Group Camp
|
Elk River