Completed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 221 acre-feet. It is situated on Chip Coulee, with a drainage area of 1.09 square miles and a maximum discharge of 330 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Tortilla is regulated by the DNRC and undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's primary source agency is in Montana, and it falls under the jurisdiction of Congressional District 00. In terms of safety measures, the condition assessment of Tortilla is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans or risk management measures in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tortilla offers a glimpse into the historical development of water infrastructure in Montana. Its multi-purpose design highlights the importance of dams for various societal needs, from fire protection to supporting local ecosystems. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the condition and regulatory oversight of structures like Tortilla becomes crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water systems.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
CHIP COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1.09 |
Nid Storage |
221 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
7350cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
127cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
451cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
5620cfs |
Big Sandy Creek Near Havre Mt
|
6cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
PABLO RAPIDS (LOWER SITE)
|
||
DARK BUTTE
|
||
SLAUGHTER RIVER
|
||
THE WALL
|
||
HOLE IN THE WALL REC SITE
|
||
EAGLE CREEK REC SITE
|