Summary
Completed in 1930, this Earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 5220 feet, with a storage capacity of 9200 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a feeder canal and is managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Despite its age, Kicking Horse has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in August 2012, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in March 2015, but details on its adherence to guidelines and preparation for potential emergencies are not available.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kicking Horse presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam with significant risk factors. Its location in a high-hazard area, coupled with its age and lack of recent condition assessments, raises questions about the dam's resilience and ability to withstand potential disasters. As discussions around dam safety and infrastructure maintenance continue to evolve, Kicking Horse serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our water resources.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
5220 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
FEEDER CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
629 |
Nid Storage |
9200 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Crow Creek Near Ronan Mt
|
9cfs |
Mission Cr Ab Reservoir Nr St Ignatius Mt
|
27cfs |
Flathead River Near Polson Mt
|
8210cfs |
South Fork Jocko River Near Arlee Mt
|
83cfs |
Flathead River At Perma Mt
|
8540cfs |
Clark Fork Near Plains Mt
|
11300cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Kicking Horse