Soda Creek Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Soda Creek Dike, located in Caribou, Idaho, is a privately owned structure designed to regulate the flow of the Soda Creek and Bear River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 15.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet, serving a primary purpose of flood control. With a storage capacity of 827 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 197 acres and drains an area of 4.8 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Soda Creek Dike is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, with regular state inspections and enforcement ensuring its operational integrity. The dam has no spillway but features rock and soil foundations along its 270-foot length. The risk assessment for this structure is considered high, signaling the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Soda Creek Dike presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management and the intersection of public and private ownership in water resource regulation. With its historical significance and vital role in flood control for the surrounding area, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with maintaining critical water infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

SODA CREEK BEAR RIVER

Surface Area

197

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

4.8

Nid Storage

827

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.