Dodson Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dodson Diversion, located in Dodson, Montana, is a federal-owned irrigation structure on the Milk River, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Completed in 1909, this concrete dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam serves to provide water for agricultural activities in the region.

Despite its age, Dodson Diversion has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in good condition. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 320 feet, ensuring proper water management during periods of high flow. With a drainage area of 6100 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in sustaining the water supply for the surrounding agricultural lands.

Overall, Dodson Diversion serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region, contributing to the efficient irrigation of farmlands along the Milk River. As a key component of the local water management system, the dam highlights the importance of sustainable water utilization in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

MILK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

6100

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.