Idaho Falls Upper Powerhouse Dam No 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Idaho Falls Upper Powerhouse Dam No 2, also known as Upper Power Dam, is a concrete multi-arch dam located in Bonneville, Idaho.
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Summary
Completed in 1982, the dam stands at a height of 36.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29.7 feet. It serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and is owned by a public utility in Idaho Falls. With a normal storage capacity of 424 acre-feet and a drainage area of 9,050 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the region.
Situated on the Snake River and Columbia River, the Idaho Falls Upper Powerhouse Dam No 2 has a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 13,500 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as very high, warranting proper risk management measures. The dam is regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. With its vital role in hydroelectric power generation and water storage, the dam remains a key infrastructure for both the local community and the broader region.
Overall, the Idaho Falls Upper Powerhouse Dam No 2 stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in Idaho's water resource management and renewable energy production efforts. Its strategic location on the Snake River and Columbia River, coupled with its significant storage capacity and high-risk assessment, underscores the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in ensuring a reliable water supply and sustainable energy generation becomes increasingly vital for the resilience of the region's water and energy systems.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
36.5 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE RIVER COLUMBIA RIVER |
Surface Area |
58.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.7 |
Drainage Area |
9050 |
Nid Storage |
424 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
37 |
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 Powerhouse Dam No 2