Idaho Fish & Game is taking further steps to get the Winchester Dam fixed. It was recently classified as a high-hazard structure by Idaho Department of Water Resources. The “high-hazard” designation means it needs significant upgrades to make sure it can safely convey a 500-year flood event.
At the most recent meeting, the Fish and Game Commission gave staff the go-ahead to apply for grants aimed at covering most, if not all, of the $2.8-$3.6 million needed for repairs.
Until the dam is fixed, water levels will remain under a 40-inch drawdown mandate. The decreased level is impacting recreational opportunities at the State Park and surrounding community.
