Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam spans 975 feet in length and stands at a height of 27 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 159 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Forest Creek and serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a drainage area of 13.56 square miles.
Managed by the DNRC and regulated by the state of Montana, Shipley's (Custer) has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam features a spillway width of 160 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1200 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been inspected recently, it is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Although Shipley's (Custer) has not been assessed for emergency preparedness or risk management measures, its location and design indicate a focus on water resource management and agricultural productivity in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find this dam an interesting example of irrigation infrastructure in Montana, highlighting the importance of sustainable water use and management in arid landscapes.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
975 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
FOREST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
13.56 |
Nid Storage |
159 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Shipley's (Custer)