Summary
Managed by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a structural length of 460 feet, creating a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Odell Creek and covers a surface area of 5 acres, with a drainage area of 8.1 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Blacks Pond Dam poses a moderate risk due to its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated." The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 740 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. With its location in Rosebud County and proximity to the Yellowstone River, Blacks Pond Dam serves as an essential water resource for the local ecosystem and surrounding communities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique blend of functions that Blacks Pond Dam fulfills, from supporting wildlife habitats to providing recreational opportunities. As a federal-owned structure maintained by the Forest Service, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in a changing climate. While the dam's risk potential is deemed moderate, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term resilience and safety of this vital water infrastructure in Montana.
Years Modified |
2017 - Other |
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
ODELL CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
8.1 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Blacks Pond Campground
|
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Cow Creek Campground
|
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Cow Creek Campground And Picnic Area
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Blacks Pond Dam