Elder Elmer is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Fort Benton, Montana, along Box Elder Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1953 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 36 feet tall and has a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to maintain its functionality.
Despite its low hazard potential, Elder Elmer plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, with a drainage area of 1.88 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 68 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but it serves as a vital infrastructure for agricultural activities in Cascade County. The dam's presence along Box Elder Creek contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of water resources in the region.
With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Elder Elmer represents a blend of engineering expertise and environmental stewardship in water management. As a key structure in the Omaha District, this dam exemplifies the importance of irrigation infrastructure in supporting local economies and ecosystems. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elder Elmer stands as a testament to the careful balance between human development and natural resource conservation in Montana's landscape.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
BOX ELDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
1.88 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3530cfs |
Missouri River Near Ulm Mt
|
3160cfs |
Belt Creek Near Monarch Mt
|
14cfs |
Sun River Near Vaughn Mt
|
2680cfs |
Muddy Creek At Vaughn Mt
|
86cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |