Dworshak Dam, located in Idaho along the North Fork Clearwater River, is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1973 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Wind
Humidity
The primary purpose of this federal-owned dam is flood risk reduction, but it also serves various other purposes such as fish and wildlife pond, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a structural height of 717 feet and a storage capacity of 3,560,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region.
The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 100 feet, helps regulate water flow during high-discharge events. Dworshak Dam has a very high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, implementing risk reduction measures, and updating emergency action plans. The agency collaborates with local emergency managers and stakeholders to ensure preparedness for any potential dam-related emergencies, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and proactive response strategies.
In the event of severe weather or unpredictable water inflows, the dam may release water to maintain structural integrity and prevent downstream flooding. With a focus on continual maintenance, risk management, and community engagement, Dworshak Dam exemplifies the critical role of infrastructure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
3287 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
17090 |
Hydraulic Height |
633 |
Drainage Area |
2440 |
Nid Storage |
3560000 |
Structural Height |
717 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
717 |
Clearwater River At Orofino Id
|
21200cfs |
Clearwater River Nr Peck Id
|
22300cfs |
Big Canyon Creek Nr Peck Id
|
33cfs |
Lolo Creek Nr Greer Id
|
771cfs |
Potlatch River Bel Little Potlatch Cr Nr Spalding
|
337cfs |
Lapwai Creek Nr Lapwai Id
|
141cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pink House Recreation Site
|
||
Damascus Group Camp
|
||
Cold Springs Group Camp
|