Summary
Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at 20 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential, Tye plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the surrounding area and serves as a vital structure for fire protection and livestock management. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but it is clear that it remains an essential component of the local water infrastructure. With Greg Gianforte as the Congressional Representative for the area, the dam's importance in ensuring water availability and sustainability cannot be overstated, making it a key feature in the region's water resource management strategy.
As an earth dam with a modest storage capacity and a focus on key purposes such as fire protection and livestock support, Tye represents a valuable asset in Chouteau County's water management efforts. With its location in a critical watershed area and its history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam serves as a testament to the role of small-scale structures in maintaining water resources and supporting the needs of local communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tye offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in Montana's water landscape.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
DRY FORK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4290cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3530cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
WOOD BOTTOM RECREATION AREA
|
||
Wood Bottom Recreation Area - UMRBNM
|
||
WOOD BOTTOM
|
||
BLACK BLUFF RAPIDS
|
||
SEINEURS REACH
|
Tye
Marias River