Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, and a length of 700 feet. With a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area, particularly during dry seasons.
Despite its age, Wilke Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The state of Montana regulates and inspects the dam, ensuring it meets safety standards and continues to serve its intended purposes. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Wilke Dam in sustaining the local ecosystem.
With its tranquil location and modest footprint, Wilke Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and the enduring value of water infrastructure. Managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the dam contributes to the overall resilience of the water supply in Phillips County, Montana. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, the role of structures like Wilke Dam becomes increasingly vital in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
COW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Wilke Dam