Tow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hill County, Montana, the Tow, Wilfred dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. Situated on the Gravel Coulee river, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, ensuring a stable water supply for farmers in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a solid structural assessment, Tow, Wilfred dam is a reliable asset in the region's water infrastructure. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this federal-owned structure showcases the importance of collaboration between government agencies in safeguarding water resources. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its intended purpose effectively, highlighting the long-term benefits of investing in sustainable water management practices.

As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, structures like Tow, Wilfred dam play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of variability in water availability. By providing a steady water supply for irrigation, this dam contributes to the resilience of local agricultural systems in the face of changing climatic conditions. With its efficient design and low-risk profile, Tow, Wilfred dam stands as a model for sustainable water resource management in the region, embodying the importance of proactive conservation efforts in safeguarding our water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Gravel Coulee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

175

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.