Sheep Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Sheep Creek is a privately owned irrigation structure located in Bear Lake, Idaho.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this Earth dam stands at 17.9 feet high and has a storage capacity of 213 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 11.8 square miles, Sheep Creek plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the region.

Despite its importance, Sheep Creek is currently rated as having poor condition and a low hazard potential. However, with regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, efforts are being made to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource. The dam has a spillway width of 14 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 74 cubic feet per second, making it a key infrastructure for managing water flow in the area.

Managed by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, Sheep Creek serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water resources and climate resilience. With its location in a remote area and its proximity to the Bear River, this dam is a testament to the importance of maintaining and safeguarding our water infrastructure for future generations of farmers and communities dependent on its water supply.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

1250

Dam Height

17.9

River Or Stream

SHEEP CREEK BEAR RIVER

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

14.8

Drainage Area

11.8

Nid Storage

213

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.