Swift (Pondera) is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Pondera, Montana, along Birch Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1967, this concrete dam stands at a height of 205 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 34,000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 30,000 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow for irrigation purposes in the area, with a maximum discharge of 33,700 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Swift (Pondera) is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in July 2020. While there are no associated structures or federal agency involvements, the dam remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, contributing to agricultural sustainability and water availability for the surrounding area.
With its impressive hydraulic height of 172 feet and rock foundation, Swift (Pondera) stands as a symbol of effective water resource management in Montana. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Swift (Pondera) play a vital role in securing water for agricultural needs and environmental sustainability. Through regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness, this dam ensures the reliable supply of water for irrigation while minimizing risks to the community and surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
573 |
Dam Height |
205 |
River Or Stream |
BIRCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
172 |
Nid Storage |
34000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
205 |