Summary
The dam, completed in 1955, stands at a height of 8 feet and has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated on Howard Creek, Gofara #7 serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, contributing to irrigation, livestock watering, and fire suppression efforts. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to determine its structural integrity and long-term reliability. With its location in a congressional district represented by Greg Gianforte, the dam plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and economy.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Gofara #7 offers valuable insights into the management and regulation of dams in Montana. The dam's history, design specifications, and regulatory oversight provide a fascinating case study for understanding the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions. Gofara #7 serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of critical water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HOWARD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Gofara #7