Conehead Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Valley, Montana, the Conehead Dam stands as a testament to water resource management in the region.


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Summary

This gravity dam, constructed by the Bureau of Land Management, spans 509 feet in length and reaches a height of 12 feet. Built on South Creek, this structure provides a storage capacity of 53.04 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25.56 acres.

Despite its modest size, Conehead Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is yet to be rated, this dam serves as a reliable component of the local water infrastructure. Although it lacks specific spillway details and outlet gates, Conehead Dam remains a key feature in the Bureau of Land Management's operations in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the intricacies of dam engineering, Conehead Dam offers a fascinating case study in sustainable water management. With its unique design featuring buttress and stone core types, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure that contributes to the overall environmental and hydrological balance in Valley, Montana.

Dam Length

509

River Or Stream

SOUTH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

25.56

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

33

Nid Storage

53.04

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.