Summary
Jr. is a private irrigation dam located in Toole, Montana, along the Crooked Coulee river. Built in 1954 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 550 feet, providing a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Benjamin, H.E. Jr. is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) due to its location and potential impact in the event of a failure. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is essential for the owners to prepare an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and conduct regular risk assessments to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure. The dam's spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is uncontrolled and has a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second, highlighting the importance of proper management and maintenance to ensure the safety of downstream areas.
The surrounding area of Benjamin, H.E. Jr. is represented by Congressional District 00 and is under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its vital role in providing irrigation water to the region, this dam serves as a crucial resource for agriculture in Toole County. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support efforts to maintain the functionality and safety of structures like Benjamin, H.E. Jr. to ensure sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
CROOKED COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
14.06 |
Nid Storage |
117 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Benjamin, H.E. Jr.