V Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

V Dam, located in Dawson County, Montana, is an earth dam built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes along the East Fork Horse Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a length of 150 feet, V Dam has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and serves as a key water resource for the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, V Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for agricultural purposes in the region. Operated by a private owner, the dam is situated in the city of Intake and is subject to state jurisdiction and permitting. The dam's spillway width of 200 feet allows for controlled release of water during periods of high flow, contributing to flood control measures and overall water management efficiency.

With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, V Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in sustaining agricultural activities in Montana. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like V Dam will be essential in ensuring a reliable water supply for both irrigation and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

EAST FORK HORSE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

4.42

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.