Potter Irrigation (Broadwater) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Potter Irrigation in Broadwater, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation structure designed by the USDA NRCS to harness water from Spokane Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this Earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 74 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 9.92 acres and drains an area of 18.4 square miles.

Located in Congressional District 00, Montana, Potter Irrigation serves a critical role in water resource management in the region. While the dam has a low hazard potential, its current condition is not rated. The structure, with a maximum discharge of 1360 cubic feet per second, plays a pivotal role in providing water for irrigation purposes in the area. As a state-regulated facility, the DNRC oversees its inspection, permitting, and enforcement.

Potter Irrigation (Broadwater) on Spokane Creek is a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the agricultural landscape of the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory framework of this dam provides valuable insights into sustainable water management practices. With its rich history dating back to the 1950s, Potter Irrigation continues to play a key role in supporting the irrigation needs of the area while adhering to state regulations and ensuring water resource sustainability.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SPOKANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.92

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

18.4

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.