Palisades Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Palisades Dam, located in Idaho along the South Fork Snake River, is a Federal-owned structure primarily designed for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 270 feet and has a storage capacity of over 1.4 million acre-feet. Its purpose also extends to hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation, making it a versatile water resource management tool in the region.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Palisades Dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 48,500 cubic feet per second. Its hazard potential is classified as high, with a very high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding communities.

As a key component of water resource management in Idaho, Palisades Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks, providing water for irrigation, generating hydroelectric power, and supporting recreational activities. Its strategic location and design make it a vital infrastructure for the region, highlighting the importance of ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance to safeguard its functionality and safety in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

270

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK SNAKE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16230

Hydraulic Height

249

Drainage Area

5208

Nid Storage

1417810

Structural Height

270

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

270
       
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.