Idaho Rivers United

The Teton Dam failed 50 years ago — a terrible story for the residents of eastern Idaho. Below is the intro to a larger essay on how the dam came to be and the tragic events of June 5th, 1976. As somber as this memorial is, this is also an opportunity to speak out against ill-conceived dam projects. Ideas about rebuilding the Teton Dam are gathering steam, and Idaho Rivers United is firmly opposed to any plan to erect a dam in a place that has already proven itself to be unsuitable for water storage.
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At 7:30 am, it was a wet, muddy spot on the downstream side of a brand-new earthen dam. By noon, it had briefly become one of the most powerful rivers in the world. Before it completed its first fill, the $100 million Teton Dam suffered a catastrophic failure over the course of a single morning with grim consequences: 11 people dead, close to 20,000 livestock killed, 100,000 acres of farmland ruined, and a disaster area of 3 towns that now looked like a warzone.

What were the primary reasons that led to this tragedy? Greed, hubris, and an unwillingness to listen to science. What is even more unnerving? The increasing pressure to rebuild the Teton Dam and try again.

🔗Read the full essay: https://www.idahorivers.org/news/teton-dam-failure-50

📸 1-3: the waterarchives.org;
4: Scott Bosse

Idaho Falls — this one’s for you. 🌿

The river running through this community shapes so much of what we love about living here — the greenbelt walks, summer evenings, fishing spots, paddle days, wildlife, memories with friends and family.

Places like this don’t stay beautiful by accident.

On May 16, we’re showing up together to care for the Snake River and the spaces that connect our community. Whether you come with friends, family, coworkers, or show up solo, you’re part of something bigger the moment you arrive.

Signup link in bio

And afterward? We celebrate. 🍻

Join us after the cleanup from 1–3 PM at Idaho Brewing Company for volunteer happy hour pricing, giveaways, and a chance to connect with other people who care deeply about this place too.

✨ Idaho Falls River Cleanup
🗓 May 16, 2026
🕥 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
🍻 Volunteer social: 1–3 PM at Idaho Brewing Company

If you’ve been wanting to get involved locally, meet good people, spend time outside, or simply give back to the river that gives so much to this community — this is your sign.

Bring a friend.
Show up for your river.
Let’s make Idaho Falls proud. 🤍