Voldseth West Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Voldseth East Dam Bonanza
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Voldseth West Dam, located in Martinsdale, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1939 primarily for irrigation purposes on the TR-COMB Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 32 feet and a length of 2200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1925 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1188 acre-feet and a surface area of 108 acres. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge rate of 20 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Voldseth West Dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in December 2020. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one performed in May 2020, and the dam has an inspection frequency of 5 years. In case of emergencies, the dam has a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3.
Overall, Voldseth West Dam plays a crucial role in the irrigation infrastructure in the area, providing water storage for agricultural purposes. It stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past, with a continued focus on safety and risk management to ensure the protection of downstream communities and the surrounding environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a point of interest in understanding the intersection of human-made structures with natural water systems and the importance of maintaining and monitoring these vital resources.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COMB CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
108 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
1925 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Voldseth West Dam