Summary
Constructed in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 2000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet of water for irrigation purposes. Situated along the South Fork Lodgepole Creek, Charangus is regulated and permitted by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Charangus plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region by providing water for irrigation. The dam's normal storage capacity of 330 acre-feet helps sustain the surrounding farmland and contributes to the local economy. Additionally, Charangus has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion, highlighting its reliability and longevity in serving the community's water resource needs.
Located in a remote area with no nearby town, Charangus remains a hidden gem in Montana's water infrastructure landscape. Operated solely for irrigation purposes, this privately owned dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining agricultural productivity and environmental balance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, facilities like Charangus play a vital role in ensuring water availability for future generations and promoting resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK LODGEPOLE CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
570 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Charangus