Fish Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Fish Creek, located in Carey, Idaho, is a private water resource regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1923 for irrigation purposes, the Fish Creek dam stands at a height of 91.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 5515 acre-feet. The dam, made of concrete with a multi-arch core, spans 1725 feet and covers a surface area of 270 acres, serving the Little Wood River.

Despite its age, the Fish Creek dam is in poor condition with a high hazard potential, as noted during its last inspection in October 2019. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 46 feet wide, poses a risk in the event of a breach. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in November 2017, and its risk assessment is categorized as moderate.

As enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, the Fish Creek dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water supply systems. The data provided offers valuable insights into the structural and regulatory aspects of the dam, highlighting the need for continued assessment and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

1725

Dam Height

91.7

River Or Stream

FISH CREEK LITTLE WOOD RIVER

Surface Area

270

Hydraulic Height

69

Drainage Area

74.6

Nid Storage

5515

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

92
       
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.