Vanette's Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Vanette's Dam, located in Powder River, Montana, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, with its construction dating back to 1912.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam serves a primary purpose of irrigation, harnessing the waters of Pilgram Creek for agricultural use. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 415 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in supporting the local farming community.
Managed by a private entity, Vanette's Dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," its hazard potential is categorized as "Significant," highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures. Despite its age, Vanette's Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region, reflecting the enduring importance of such infrastructure in sustaining agricultural activities.
As climate change poses new challenges to water resources, Vanette's Dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in ensuring water security for communities. With its historical significance and continued relevance in irrigation, the dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, agriculture, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
PILGRAM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
415 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Vanette's Dam