Barber Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Barber is a privately owned timber crib dam located on the Boise River in Boise, Idaho.


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Summary

Built in 1904, the dam stands at 26 feet high with a length of 2000 feet, providing hydroelectric power to the region. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Barber has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 37,922 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Barber has a low hazard potential and is considered to have moderate risk with a moderate (3) risk assessment rating. The dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, but regular inspections are conducted every three years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. In case of emergencies, an emergency action plan is in place, although details on its preparation and guidelines meeting are not available.

Barber's historical significance in providing hydroelectric power to the region, combined with its relatively low hazard potential, makes it a key structure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and sustainability of dams like Barber is crucial for long-term water security in the region.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Boise River

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

48

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

2700

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.