Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 526 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is classified as having a low hazard potential with a condition assessment of "Not Rated".
Situated in Blaine County, Sam is under the jurisdiction of the state of Montana and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment remain unknown. With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, offering a reliable source of water for agricultural activities. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Sam to be an intriguing example of human-made infrastructure supporting sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAVOY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
526 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Battle Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
12cfs |
Clear Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
21cfs |
Milk River At Malta Mt
|
0cfs |
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.
Sam