Summary
Built in 1917 by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this Earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet and spans 800 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 26,400 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of irrigation in the region. Despite its age, Little Bitterroot remains a crucial water resource for the community.
While the dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available." Regular inspections are conducted every five years, with the last one taking place in April 2011. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in March 2015, indicating a proactive approach to risk management. Overall, Little Bitterroot poses a very high risk level, underscoring the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding area.
In terms of regulatory oversight, the Bureau of Indian Affairs is responsible for the design, construction, operations, and inspections of Little Bitterroot. With its controlled spillway and strategic location within the Seattle District, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and agricultural activities in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate alike can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Little Bitterroot in sustaining the local ecosystem and economy.
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°F
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Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
800 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BITTERROOT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
26400 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill Cr Ab Bassoo Cr Nr Niarada Mt
|
2cfs |
Flathead River At Columbia Falls Mt
|
4310cfs |
Swan River Near Bigfork Mt
|
672cfs |
Fisher River Near Libby Mt
|
376cfs |
Flathead River Near Polson Mt
|
13600cfs |
S F Flathead River Nr Columbia Falls Mt
|
1590cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ashley Lake North Campground
|
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Ashley Lake North
|
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Ashley Lake South Campground
|
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McGregor Lake Campground
|
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McGregor Lake
|
Little Bitterroot