Curry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Curry Dam, located in Pondera, Montana, serves as a vital irrigation structure along the Cartwright Coulee.


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Summary

Owned privately, the dam stands at a height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, providing a storage capacity of 172.8 acre-feet for agricultural purposes. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, the dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and functionality.

Although the exact year of completion is not specified, Curry Dam remains an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure, contributing significantly to the irrigation needs of the surrounding area. With a significant hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam's safety and maintenance are closely monitored. While the inspection frequency and emergency action preparedness status are not provided, the dam's importance in water management and agricultural production cannot be understated.

As part of the broader water management efforts in Montana, Curry Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for agricultural activities in the region. With its location in a Congressional District represented by Greg Gianforte, the dam's operation and maintenance are essential for sustainable water resource management. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about Curry Dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and emergency preparedness can help in advocating for responsible water usage and conservation practices in the region.

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CARTWRIGHT COULEE

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

172.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.