Velvet Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Velvet is a privately owned dam located on Box Elder Creek in Albion, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. The dam, with a length of 175 feet, is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential, Velvet plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the local community while also serving as a protective measure against potential emergencies. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, its construction and operation fall under state jurisdiction, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is regularly monitored. The surrounding area, within Carter County, Montana, benefits from the dam's water storage capacity and its contribution to maintaining a sustainable environment in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Velvet highlights the importance of responsible water management and infrastructure maintenance. With the potential to impact both local ecosystems and communities, dams like Velvet serve as essential components of water resource management, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring, regulation, and safety measures to ensure their continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
BOX ELDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Velvet