Gardiner Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Gardiner Lower, also known as Lower Gardiner Reservoir, is a private-owned water resource located in Bear Lake, Idaho.


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Summary

This reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes and was completed in 1935. With a dam height of 20.8 feet and a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet, Gardiner Lower plays a crucial role in water management for the surrounding area.

Despite its importance, Gardiner Lower faces some challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. The reservoir has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures. The last inspection in May 2018 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure.

Located in a remote area with Wood Canyon Creek and Thomas Fork Creek as its primary water sources, Gardiner Lower represents a vital piece of infrastructure for the local community. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight from the Idaho Department of Water Resources, this reservoir serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

20.8

River Or Stream

WOOD CANYON CREEK THOMAS FORK CREEK

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

17.8

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

66

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.