Little Payette Lake Dike Reservoir Report
Nearby: Knox Meadow Little Payette Lake Main
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Little Payette Lake Dike, located in McCall, Idaho, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources.
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Summary
This earth dam, constructed in 1926 for irrigation purposes, stands at a height of 11.3 feet with a hydraulic height of 2.7 feet. The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 3,550 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,450 acres, serving as a vital source of water for the surrounding area.
Despite its historical significance, the Little Payette Lake Dike is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in September 2020 highlighted the need for improvements and raised concerns about the dam's safety. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, there is a pressing need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this crucial water resource infrastructure in the face of potential climate challenges.
Given its importance for irrigation and water supply in the region, stakeholders must prioritize the maintenance and rehabilitation of the Little Payette Lake Dike to mitigate risks and safeguard the surrounding community and environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is imperative to address the dam's structural deficiencies and enhance its resilience to future challenges. Collaborative efforts between private owners, state regulators, and local authorities are essential to ensure the sustainable management of this key water infrastructure for the benefit of all.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
825 |
Dam Height |
11.3 |
River Or Stream |
LAKE FORK NORTH FORK PAYETTE RIVER |
Surface Area |
1450 |
Hydraulic Height |
2.7 |
Drainage Area |
64 |
Nid Storage |
3550 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
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Little Payette Lake Dike
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