Foulweather Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Foulweather Detention Dam, located in Nashua, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
Built in 1966, this gravity dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Willow Creek/Milk River. With a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 37.2 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Foulweather Detention Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed during its last inspection in September 2017. The dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment are lacking, indicating a need for improved risk management measures. With moderate risk levels identified and a history of poor condition assessment, there is a call for increased attention to the maintenance and monitoring of this essential flood control infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining structures like Foulweather Detention Dam to ensure effective flood risk reduction and protection of surrounding communities. By addressing the identified deficiencies and implementing necessary improvements, we can strengthen the resilience of this critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and potential emergencies.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1015 |
River Or Stream |
WILLOW CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
37.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
2.8 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Foulweather Detention Dam