Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this concrete structure stands at a height of 68 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation. With a storage capacity of 872,700 acre-feet and a surface area of 25,540 acres, Jackson Lake is a vital component of the North Fork Snake River watershed.
The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a width of 202 feet, ensuring efficient water management during periods of high discharge. Despite its age, the dam has undergone modifications in 1988, including improvements to its foundation, seismic resilience, and structural integrity. Jackson Lake has a high hazard potential, as indicated by its very high risk assessment rating. The dam is equipped with Tainter (radial) outlet gates to manage water release, with regular inspections conducted by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its safety and operational effectiveness.
This iconic waterbody not only plays a crucial role in flood control but also provides habitat for fish and wildlife, enhancing the recreational value of the area. With a rich history dating back over a century, Jackson Lake continues to be a symbol of effective water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Years Modified |
1988 - Foundation, 1988 - Seismic, 1988 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
222 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK SNAKE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
25540 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
824 |
Nid Storage |
872700 |
Structural Height |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
68 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River Nr Moran Wy
|
297cfs |
Pacific Creek At Moran Wy
|
21cfs |
Buffalo Fork Ab Lava Creek Nr Moran Wy
|
181cfs |
Snake River At Moose
|
990cfs |
Gros Ventre River At Kelly Wy
|
149cfs |
Snake River Ab Jackson Lake At Flagg Ranch Wy
|
221cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Signal Mountain Campground
|
||
Signal Mountain - Grand Teton National Park
|
||
Signal Mountain
|
||
A17
|
||
C37
|
||
C36
|
Jackson Lake