Priest Lake At Outlet Nr Coolin Id Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Priest Lake is a natural lake situated in Bonner County, Idaho, near the town of Coolin.


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Summary

The lake is fed by a combination of stream inflow, snowmelt, and groundwater. It is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing. The lake has a rich history, as it was originally used by Native American tribes for hunting and fishing. Later, it became a popular spot for logging and milling operations. Today, the lake is used for both agricultural and recreational purposes. The Priest Lake snowpack is an important source of water for irrigation and hydropower generation in the region. The lake is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change 3.36%
Percent of Normal 159%
Minimum 0.01 ft
2018-03-08
Maximum 6.31 ft
2022-12-20
Average 1 ft
Dam_Height 12
Hydraulic_Height 8
Drainage_Area 572
Year_Completed 1979
Nid_Storage 76100
Foundations Rock, Soil
Surface_Area 23800
Hazard_Potential Significant
Outlet_Gates None
River_Or_Stream PRIEST LAKE PRIEST RIVER
Dam_Length 194
Nid_Height 12
       
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels

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.