Oliver Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Arbuckle #1 Arbuckle #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Oliver Detention Dam, located in Carter, Montana, along Butte Creek, was completed in 2003 by the Bureau of Land Management for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This gravity-type dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 9 feet, with a storage capacity of 1301.8 acre-feet. The dam measures 3369 feet in length and covers a surface area of 178.33 acres, serving as a crucial infrastructure to mitigate potential flooding in the region.
Despite its importance in flood risk management, the condition assessment of Oliver Detention Dam reflects a poor rating, with a hazard potential classified as low and a moderate risk level. The last inspection was conducted in July 2020, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam lacks certain safety features like outlet gates and locks, it remains a critical structure in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flood events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the complex engineering and management challenges involved in maintaining and improving such vital infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
3369 |
River Or Stream |
BUTTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
178.33 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
1301.8 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
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.
Oliver Detention Dam