History of the Teton Dam Flood
The Teton Dam was an earthen dam constructed between February 1972 and November 1975 by Morrison-Knudsen authorized by the Federal Bureau of Reclamation. It stood 305 feet high and was primarily designed for irrigation purposes to support local agriculture. On October 3, 1975, the dam began to be filled. In the Spring of 1976, the fill pace was accelerated due to heavy snowfall runoff, which increased the original filling rate from one foot to four feet per day.
On June 5, 1976, the dam's structural integrity was compromised when the first leak was detected early in the morning. Despite efforts to plug the leak with bulldozers, the situation worsened, culminating in a catastrophic breach at 11:57 a.m. Approximately 80 billion gallons of water rushed through the gap, inundating the surrounding areas. Within minutes, the floodwaters reached devastating heights of 10 to 30 feet, impacting nearby communities of Wilford, Sugar City, and Rexburg.
The flood resulted in 11 fatalities and extensive property damage, with about 90% of residents in affected areas losing 90% of their possessions. Some evacuees found refuge at Ricks College (now BYU-Idaho), which served over 386,000 meals to survivors. As waters continued southward, Idaho Falls managed to mitigate some damage through proactive sandbagging efforts, while the farthest south-affected communities, Firth and Blackfoot, faced severe flooding. The flood waters were finally contained at the American Falls Dam three days later.
The disaster severely disrupted communication and transportation due to downed power and phone lines and destroyed roads. In response, Congress passed a $200 million relief bill to assist victims, and housing was provided rent-free for a year through HUD. Most affected towns were rebuilt within a year, aided by government support and community volunteers.
The dam has never been rebuilt, and the site remains accessible to visitors to this day. The Teton Dam Flood prompted the establishment of the federal Safety Evaluation of Existing Dams (SEED) program to enhance the safety regulations governing dams across the country.
Community is a result of shared experiences. FLOOD 50 is a time to gather, to remember, to serve; and to create new experiences we will reminisce for years to come.
What is Flood 50?
As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Teton Dam Flood, which broke on June 5th, 1976, we invite you to explore the story of not just devastation, but the extraordinary resilience and unity that emerged in its aftermath. Learn more about this commemorative year-long event.
Not forgetting the challenges of the past, we move forward, remembering the many tender mercies amidst the tragedy, inspired by our community's resilience.
Watch Rexburg's documentary about the flood:
"Flood of Memories".
Experience films & exhibits about the flood, telling individual stories, sharing glimpses into the past.
Envision the Past on a downtown walking tour and see what areas were impacted most.
Visit the Site of the flood and learn about how the events unfolded on a Dam Bus Tour.
In the flood's wake, armies of volunteers came to the aid of strangers and neighbors. We honor their service and look for opportunities to make a difference today.
Restore the Area and bring a new sense of cleanliness to places in need, like highways and parks
Dedicate your Time by committing to 50 hours of service. 50 hours for 50 years.
Fill the Bucket and see how your time is making a difference here at home.
Share your Story about the flood and on our flood of memories wall memorial.
Learn to Provide Aid by participating in a CERT training session to assist others in their time of need.