Culver Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Culver Springs Dam, located in Beaverhead, Montana, is a Federal-owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this Earth dam serves the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along Hackett Creek. With a height of 9 feet and a length of 232 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 461 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 110 acre-feet and a surface area of 65 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Culver Springs Dam was assessed as unsatisfactory during its last inspection in August 2018. The dam features other controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 36 feet. In 1988, the dam underwent modifications for both structural and other purposes. The surrounding area is at a low risk for inundation, and there are currently no Emergency Action Plans in place.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Culver Springs Dam presents an interesting case study in the management and maintenance of water infrastructure. With its unique design and purpose, this dam serves as a valuable resource for the local Fish and Wildlife Service, showcasing the intersection of environmental conservation and engineering practices. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and functionality of Culver Springs Dam, it remains a focal point for ongoing research and discussions in the field of water resource management.

Years Modified

1988 - Other, 1988 - Structural

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

232

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

HACKETT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

461

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.