Summary
Built in 1938, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet, Cool Cotton provides significant hazard potential due to its age and condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated."
The dam, managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. Although the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are not specified, its location in a rural area underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring its structural integrity. Positioned in Congressional District 00 under the representation of Greg Gianforte, Cool Cotton stands as a vital resource for water management and climate resilience in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Cool Cotton's historical significance as a part of Montana's water infrastructure. Its role in providing essential services while posing potential risks highlights the need for regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important earth dam. With its unique location and purpose, Cool Cotton serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water management, environmental conservation, and community safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Cool Cotton