Spring Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Spring Valley is a state-owned dam located in Latah, Idaho, designed to regulate the flow of Spring Valley Creek and Little Bear Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 47.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 721 acre-feet. With a surface area of 53 acres and a drainage area of 2.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 44 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 190 cubic feet per second. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition according to the last inspection conducted in August 2020. However, the risk assessment categorizes it as very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital water management structure.

Located in a picturesque setting near Bovard, Idaho, Spring Valley Dam is not only a functional piece of infrastructure but also a testament to the intricate balance between water resource management and environmental preservation. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the role of structures like Spring Valley becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

47.4

River Or Stream

SPRING VALLEY CREEK LITTLE BEAR CREEK

Surface Area

53

Hydraulic Height

42.3

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

721

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

47
       
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.