Summary
Constructed in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 700 feet, Wheeler #1 has a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.17 square miles.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, Wheeler #1 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the DNRC in Montana. The risk assessment for this dam is rated as moderate (3), indicating a certain level of risk that requires management measures to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of potential climate and water resource challenges.
Overall, Wheeler #1 is an important structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and evaluate, given its role in supporting fire protection, livestock management, and aquatic habitat in the region. As part of the larger network of dams and reservoirs in Montana, Wheeler #1 plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts, highlighting the intersection between infrastructure, natural resources, and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LONGFORK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.17 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
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.
Wheeler #1