Summary
The dam stands at a height of 21.3 feet, with a hydraulic height of 17.8 feet, and a length of 300 feet. It impounds the waters of the South Fork Cottonwood Creek, serving a drainage area of 6,976 acres and providing a storage capacity of 92.56 acre-feet.
This significant dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Rieger is currently labeled as 'Not Rated', indicating the need for further evaluation and monitoring. The dam does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) in place, highlighting the potential risks associated with its operation and maintenance.
With its crucial role in providing irrigation water to the surrounding agricultural lands, Rieger serves as a vital water resource in the region. However, the lack of a current condition assessment and emergency preparedness plan suggests a need for increased attention and maintenance to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
21.3 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.8 |
Drainage Area |
6976 |
Nid Storage |
92.56 |
Structural Height |
21.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Rieger