Summary
Owned privately, the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 895 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 580 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Fisher Dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Fisher Dam is regulated at the state level and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite not having a designated spillway type or outlet gates, the dam's primary purpose of irrigation highlights its importance in sustaining water supplies for the surrounding agricultural lands. With its location in Valley County, Montana, Fisher Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and availability, the role of dams like Fisher Dam in ensuring water security becomes increasingly significant. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Fisher Dam represents a key infrastructure for water management in Montana, supporting both agricultural activities and water supply needs in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Fisher Dam is essential in addressing the challenges posed by a changing climate on water availability and management.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
1720 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
COAL BANK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
895 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Fisher Dam