Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 345 feet, with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. Situated on the Rock Creek river, this low-hazard dam has a maximum discharge of 158 cubic feet per second and is under the jurisdiction of the DNRC for inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
Owned and operated by the state of Montana, Rock Creek dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Beaverhead County. With a normal storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5 square miles, this dam ensures a reliable water supply for agricultural irrigation in the region. Despite being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Rock Creek dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, with no reported incidents or emergencies to date.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rock Creek dam offers a fascinating example of sustainable water infrastructure in Montana. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in ensuring water security and irrigation sustainability. With its strategic location on the Rock Creek river and low-hazard potential, Rock Creek dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community and a model for responsible water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
345 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Rock Creek