Summary
With a height of 15 feet and a length of 700 feet, it has a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and serves the Spring Creek area in Madison County. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having low hazard potential and being in good condition, Cosmic Nick has not been rated for its current condition. Emergency action plans and risk assessments for the dam have not been prepared, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of safety and readiness for any unforeseen events. Given its importance for fire protection and water storage in the area, continued monitoring and maintenance of Cosmic Nick is essential to prevent any potential risks and ensure its long-term functionality.
With its peaceful location and vital role in providing water resources for the local community, Cosmic Nick stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management in preserving both water security and environmental safety. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Cosmic Nick to be an intriguing case study in dam regulation and maintenance, highlighting the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in managing water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Cosmic Nick
Big Hole River