Summary
Completed in 1953, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 63 feet and a storage capacity of 13,540 acre-feet, with a surface area of 800 acres. Its significant hazard potential is met with careful monitoring and regulation by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam.
The dam's spillway, though uncontrolled, is 119 feet wide, allowing for a maximum discharge of 36,000 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 2,460 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Frenchman Dam remains a key infrastructure for the local community, reflecting the state's commitment to sustainable water management practices.
Frenchman Dam's strategic location in Phillips County, Montana, underlines its importance in the region's water resource management. Congressman Greg Gianforte represents the area, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal agencies in ensuring the dam's operational efficiency. As climate change continues to impact water availability, Frenchman Dam stands as a resilient structure, safeguarding water resources for irrigation and supporting the agricultural landscape of the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
2100 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
FRENCHMAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
800 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
2460 |
Nid Storage |
13540 |
Structural Height |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
63 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Frenchman Dam