Caldwell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Garfield County, Montana, the Caldwell structure is a privately owned earth dam built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 264 feet, this dam was designed for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes along the Woody Creek river/stream. The dam has a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.03 square miles, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, Caldwell plays a crucial role in the local water resource infrastructure. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and potentially implementing risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam. The dam is regulated by the DNRC and is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, highlighting the importance of compliance with safety standards and regulations in water resource management.

With its strategic location and purposeful design, Caldwell serves as a key structure for water supply, fire protection, and livestock management in the area. As water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the role of dams like Caldwell in balancing water usage and environmental conservation is essential for sustainable water management practices. By staying informed and engaged in the upkeep and regulation of structures like Caldwell, enthusiasts can contribute to the long-term resilience and protection of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

264

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-WOODY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

2.03

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.