Ririe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Ririe is a federally-owned dam located in Bonneville, Idaho, along the Willow Creek river.


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Summary

Completed in 1976 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 253 feet, with a storage capacity of over 100,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 40,000 cubic feet per second. The dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for irrigation and recreation in the surrounding area.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Ririe Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement by the Idaho Department of Water Resources. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are crucial for ensuring public safety in the event of a dam failure. Despite limited information on the dam's condition assessment, the last inspection in May 2020 and the preparedness for emergencies, such as flood inundation maps and risk management measures, are essential components in safeguarding the surrounding communities.

Ririe Dam's strategic location in Bonneville, Idaho, and its significant role in flood risk reduction highlight its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a key infrastructure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the dam's integrity and the safety of downstream areas. With its critical functions and potential risks, Ririe serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of proactive dam safety measures in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

253

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1560

Hydraulic Height

169

Drainage Area

487

Nid Storage

100500

Structural Height

253

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

253
       
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.