Boulder Meadow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Boulder Meadow is a private irrigation dam located in McCall, Idaho, on Boulder Creek North Fork of the Payette River.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 3.6 square miles, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation for agricultural use in the area.

Despite its important function, Boulder Meadow is facing significant challenges. A recent inspection in September 2020 revealed poor condition assessment, raising concerns about its structural integrity and hazard potential. The dam's spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 24 feet, further highlighting the need for regular maintenance and monitoring. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), there is a pressing need for risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.

Given its critical role in providing water resources for irrigation, the condition of Boulder Meadow calls for immediate attention and action. With state regulation and inspection in place, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to address the identified risks and implement necessary measures to safeguard this vital water infrastructure for the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

35.1

River Or Stream

BOULDER CREEK NORTH FORK PAYETTE RIVER

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

30.9

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

490

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.