Taylor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Powell County, Montana, the Upper Taylor Dam is a vital infrastructure for irrigation purposes along the Taylor Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1951, this earth dam stands 43 feet tall and spans a length of 680 feet, providing a storage capacity of 372 acre-feet for agricultural water supply. With a drainage area of 6.8 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the Upper Taylor Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safe operation. With a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2018, the dam has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam is regularly updated to meet guidelines, ensuring preparedness in case of any unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper Taylor Dam serves as an intriguing case study of water management in Montana. As a key piece of infrastructure for irrigation in the region, the dam's structural integrity and regulatory oversight are essential for sustainable water use and disaster risk reduction. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the Upper Taylor Dam plays a critical role in supporting agricultural activities and water supply in Powell County.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TAYLOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

6.8

Nid Storage

372

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.