Minidoka South Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Minidoka South Dike, located in Heyburn, Idaho, along the Snake River, is a crucial structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1906 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 788 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 210,200 acre-feet for irrigation, recreation, and power generation. The dam is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With a high hazard potential due to its location and function, Minidoka South Dike is closely monitored for any risks or issues that may arise. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region, serving as a critical infrastructure for the surrounding communities. The dam has no spillway and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, making it essential for flood control and water management in the area.

As part of the Bureau of Reclamation's operations, Minidoka South Dike contributes to the overall water management strategy in Cassia County, Idaho. With its impressive history and ongoing maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resources and climate resilience in the region. Its continued presence ensures a reliable water supply for irrigation, recreation, and power generation for years to come.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

788

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

SNAKE RIVER TR

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

12400

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

15625

Nid Storage

220200

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.