Idaho Falls Upper Diversion Dam No 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Dike Upper Diversion Dam #2
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Idaho Falls Upper Diversion Dam No 1, also known as the East Channel Diversion Dam, is a critical water infrastructure located in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
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Summary
This public utility dam plays a key role in hydroelectric power generation along the Snake River and Columbia River. Completed in 1982, this concrete dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 615 feet, with a storage capacity of 362 acre-feet and a surface area of 50.3 acres.
Managed by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, the Idaho Falls Upper Diversion Dam No 1 is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With a spillway width of 300 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 60,000 cubic feet per second, this dam is designed to handle controlled releases and mitigate flood risks in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its satisfactory condition and emergency preparedness.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Bonneville County, Idaho, the Idaho Falls Upper Diversion Dam No 1 stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, this dam serves as a lifeline for agricultural, industrial, and residential water needs, while also supporting renewable energy production through hydroelectric generation. With a strong focus on risk assessment and management, the dam continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability for Idaho Falls and its surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE RIVER COLUMBIA RIVER |
Surface Area |
50.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
9050 |
Nid Storage |
362 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Idaho Falls Upper Diversion Dam No 1