Summary
Completed in 1950, this dam stands at 23 feet high with a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.6 acres. It serves the TR-North Fork Lone Tree Creek and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk rating of 3, Erickson has not been rated for condition assessment. The uncontrolled spillway is 10 feet wide, with a maximum discharge of 100 cubic feet per second. Despite being privately owned, it falls under state jurisdiction with permitting, inspection, and enforcement carried out by the DNRC. The dam is situated in a picturesque location in Sidney, with a drainage area of 2.27 square miles.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Erickson presents an intriguing case study of a modest yet essential water management structure. Its multiple purposes and the involvement of federal agencies like USDA NRCS highlight the collaboration required to ensure effective water resource management. The risk assessment and regulatory framework surrounding Erickson offer valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and monitoring dams in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK LONE TREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
2.27 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Erickson