Paradise Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Paradise Diversion, located in Dodson, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Built in 1905, this concrete dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes on the Milk River. Standing at 21 feet in height and spanning 570 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 150 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Paradise Diversion has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in moderate risk condition. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 200 feet. While the structure has not been significantly modified over the years, it is subject to regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation, with a frequency of once every 6 years. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 5960 square miles, indicating the importance of this water resource for the region.

Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate conservation will find Paradise Diversion to be a historic and essential piece of infrastructure in the area. With its role in supporting local irrigation needs and its potential impact on the surrounding environment, the dam serves as a focal point for monitoring and ensuring the safety of water resources in the region. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, the maintenance and assessment of structures like Paradise Diversion are crucial for sustainable water use and conservation efforts in Montana.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

MILK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

5960

Nid Storage

185

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

21
       
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.