Olson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Olson is a privately owned water resource structure located in Elmore, Idaho, designed by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1981, this earth dam stands at a height of 23.6 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18.6 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet and is situated on an unnamed stream connected to Camas Creek, with a drainage area of 2.7 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Olson has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 280 cubic feet per second. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it is regularly inspected by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, with the last assessment conducted in October 2018. With its stone core and rock and soil foundations, Olson plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Olson to be an intriguing example of a privately owned irrigation dam in Idaho. Its location on a tributary of Camas Creek, its storage capacity of 119 acre-feet, and its low hazard potential make it a notable structure in the region. The dam's design by the USDA NRCS and its regular inspections by the Idaho Department of Water Resources ensure its continued functionality and safety. Overall, Olson serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to both agricultural irrigation and water resource management in the area.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

730

Dam Height

23.6

River Or Stream

UNNAMED STREAM CAMAS CREEK

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

18.6

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

119

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.