Cottonwood Dam (Park) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kaiser Landers #1
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Cottonwood Dam, located in Park, Montana, along Cottonwood Creek, is a state-owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a length of 610 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 3,670 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 1,905 acre-feet and a drainage area of 34 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Cottonwood Dam is reported as fair, with the last inspection conducted in April 2021. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 70 feet and has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified in the available data, suggesting a potential area for improvement in emergency preparedness and response.
Being under the regulatory oversight of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Cottonwood Dam serves as an essential infrastructure for water supply and agricultural purposes in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find interest in the dam's historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing management practices that contribute to the sustainable utilization of water resources in Montana.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
235 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
34 |
Nid Storage |
3670 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Cottonwood Dam (Park)