Itcaina Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Itcaina Detention Dam, located in Nashua, Montana, is a federal structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 677 acre-feet and a surface area of 102.8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam, situated on Willow Creek/Milk River, serves as a vital resource for the community, providing necessary water storage for various purposes. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the risk assessment categorizes it as moderate. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and is regularly inspected, with the last inspection conducted in December 2019. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to understand the significance of structures like Itcaina Detention Dam in managing water flow and safeguarding the surrounding environment.
With its historical significance and continued functionality, Itcaina Detention Dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in Montana. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like this become increasingly important for maintaining water supply and protecting against potential hazards. Itcaina Detention Dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
716 |
River Or Stream |
WILLOW CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
102.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
3.6 |
Nid Storage |
677 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Itcaina Detention Dam