Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1950 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, stands at 20 feet high and 150 feet long, with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. Situated on the West Fork Poplar River, this low-hazard structure is regulated by the DNRC and falls under Montana jurisdiction, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Owned privately, Professor Pool serves as a crucial water source in the region, with a drainage area of 2.34 square miles and a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second. With a spillway width of 50 feet, this dam ensures safety and protection for the surrounding area. Despite not being rated for its condition, the structure remains in a low-hazard potential category, emphasizing its importance for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the community.
With its rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, Professor Pool continues to be a vital resource for water supply and conservation efforts in Montana. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. As climate change poses new challenges, structures like Professor Pool play a crucial role in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK POPLAR RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2.34 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
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.
Professor Pool