I.U. Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

I.U.


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Summary

Reservoir, located in Blaine, Montana, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1938 for irrigation purposes on Cow Creek. With a dam height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 439 acre-feet, the reservoir serves as a vital water resource in the region. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the dam is classified as having low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Despite its remote location in a townless area, I.U. Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management for agriculture in the region. The reservoir's primary purpose of irrigation is supported by its maximum storage capacity of 439 acre-feet and normal storage of 330 acre-feet. The dam's location at coordinates 48.086 latitude and -109.2889 longitude, along with its ownership by the state of Montana, underscores the importance of this water resource in sustaining agricultural activities in the area.

With no associated structures and limited data on its current condition, I.U. Reservoir remains a key component of water infrastructure in the region. As a state-regulated facility with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the reservoir reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of water management practices. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of I.U. Reservoir in supporting irrigation and contributing to the sustainability of water resources in Montana's agricultural landscape.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

COW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

44

Nid Storage

439

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

44
       
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.