Swift Dike in Pondera, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1967 for irrigation purposes on Birch Creek offstream.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 53 feet with a hydraulic height of 42 feet, providing a storage capacity of 34,000 acre-feet. Its location in the Seattle District, Montana, makes it a vital structure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Swift Dike is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. With a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to maintain its integrity. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in October 2020, highlighting the importance of preparedness for any potential risks associated with the structure.
Despite being a private dam, Swift Dike plays a crucial role in the irrigation system of the area, providing essential water resources for agriculture. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management in Pondera County, Montana, reflecting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
457 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
BIRCH CREEK OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Nid Storage |
34000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
53 |