Summary
Built in 1938, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 1330 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1398 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Black Coulee Dam is to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local flora and fauna.
Despite its low hazard potential, Black Coulee Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of 2012, with a moderate risk level. The dam has undergone structural modifications in 1992 to ensure its continued functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, slide outlet gates, and a drainage area of 12 square miles. With a history dating back over 80 years, Black Coulee Dam remains a vital component of the local ecosystem, supporting wildlife and water resource management efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Black Coulee Dam offers a compelling case study in the intersection of infrastructure, conservation, and risk management. As a critical component of the Fish and Wildlife Service's operations, the dam demonstrates the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining ecosystems and supporting biodiversity. With ongoing assessments and potential maintenance needs, Black Coulee Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Years Modified |
1992 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
1330 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH BLACK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
173 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
1398 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Black Coulee Dam