Summary
Constructed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition.
Managed by the DNRC, Mad Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards. Although the dam has not been assessed for its condition recently, it remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure. The dam's spillway width of 50 feet and maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second contribute to its functionality and efficiency in water management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mad Dam presents an interesting case study of a privately-owned irrigation dam in Montana. Its historical significance, engineering design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intersection of water management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship. As the dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, monitoring its condition and performance remains essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
25 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ARROW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Belt Creek Near Monarch Mt
|
14cfs |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3620cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Missouri River Near Ulm Mt
|
3150cfs |
Smith River Near Eden Mt
|
119cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Thain Creek
|
||
Thain Creek Campground
|
||
Thain Creek Camp Ground
|
Mad Dam