Constructed in 1955, the Albeni Falls Dam, also known as Pend Oreille Lake, stands as a vital hydroelectric facility on the Pend Oreille River in Newport, Idaho.
Wind
Humidity
With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation, this concrete gravity dam boasts a structural height of 180 feet and a hydraulic height of 90 feet. Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam plays a crucial role in balancing flood risks to Lake Pend Oreille, with a maximum discharge capacity of 420,000 cubic feet per second and a storage capacity of 1,155,000 acre-feet.
Despite its high hazard potential, the Albeni Falls Dam is rigorously maintained to mitigate risks to life safety and property. Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs are carried out to ensure the structure's reliability, especially during extreme weather events like snowmelt and heavy rainfall. The USACE continuously monitors river conditions and collaborates with local authorities to update emergency action plans, conduct emergency exercises, and engage with stakeholders to manage flood operations effectively. While the dam's risk assessment remains at a very high level, the USACE's proactive approach and risk management measures instill confidence in the dam's ability to reduce flood risks and safeguard the surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1055 |
River Or Stream |
PEND OREILLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
94600 |
Hydraulic Height |
90 |
Drainage Area |
24200 |
Nid Storage |
1155000 |
Structural Height |
180 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
180 |
Pend Oreille River At Newport Wa
|
17000cfs |
Priest River Nr Priest River Id
|
955cfs |
Little Spokane River At Elk
|
48cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
764cfs |
Pack River Nr Colburn Id
|
610cfs |
Spokane River Nr Post Falls Id
|
3340cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Albeni Cove Campground
|
||
Albeni Cove - Oldtown
|
||
Priest River Park
|
||
Priest River Campgrounds
|
||
Enchantment Camp
|
||
Riley Creek
|