Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet, primarily serving the purposes of fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Brown #3 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite its modest size and limited storage capacity, Brown #3 plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and livestock in the region. Given its location in a rural area with low population density, the dam's risk of failure is deemed low, although emergency action plans and inundation maps have not been prepared. The dam is not operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and has not undergone recent inspections or condition assessments, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the community it serves.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brown #3 offers a glimpse into the diverse array of dams scattered across Montana's landscape, each playing a unique role in water management and ecosystem conservation. As a small but significant feature in the local water infrastructure, this privately owned dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human activities and natural resources, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship and sustainable utilization of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SAND COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Brown #3