Summary
With a height of 42 feet and a length of 330 feet, it serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing a storage capacity of 1037 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 49 acres. The dam, classified as an Earth type, is regulated by the DNRC and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Burnt Fork Dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. With a moderate risk level and a regular inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified. The dam's spillway, with a width of 27 feet, is listed as uncontrolled, indicating a potential need for further risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities in case of a catastrophic event.
As a crucial component of the local irrigation system, Burnt Fork Dam plays a significant role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. Its location in Ravalli County, Montana, highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in maintaining the dam's integrity and safeguarding the surrounding ecosystem from potential hazards. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Burnt Fork Dam to be an intriguing case study in balancing water management needs with environmental protection and community safety.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
BURNT FORK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
49 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
1037 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
42 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Crystal Creek Campground
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Gold Creek Campground
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Gird Point Lookout
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Hogback Homestead
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Morgan-Case Homestead
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Morrison Camp
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Burnt Fork Dam
Rock Creek