Summary
Completed in 1952, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 125 feet, Ro Smith #1 has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 37 acre-feet.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ro Smith #1 is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been officially rated. As a key structure in the area's water resource management, Ro Smith #1 plays a crucial role in providing water for various uses while also showcasing the intersection of human engineering with natural ecosystems.
Located along Sand Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ro Smith #1 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and necessity of water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dam represents a vital piece of Montana's water resource landscape, safeguarding against potential hazards and supporting the local ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Ro Smith #1