Summary
Built in 1945 for irrigation purposes, Mera stands at 20 feet tall with a length of 60 feet and a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Mera serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing irrigation water to the community. Its location in Beaverhead County, Montana, demonstrates the importance of efficient water management in sustaining agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by private owners, Mera is a key infrastructure contributing to water resource sustainability in Montana. As climate change impacts water availability, dams like Mera play a crucial role in preserving and managing water resources for agricultural needs. With its state-regulated status and operational efficiency, Mera serves as a model for responsible water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
60 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
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.
Mera