Barretts Diversion Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pipe Organ Du Dam Clark Canyon
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
Barretts Diversion, located in Dillon, Montana, along the Beaverhead River, is a concrete dam completed in 1962 by the Bureau of Reclamation for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in water management in the area. The dam's spillway, with a width of 24 feet, helps manage water flow during peak discharge events, ensuring the safety of downstream areas.
Despite its low hazard potential, Barretts Diversion is considered to have a very high risk due to its age and the potential impact of a failure. This risk underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the structural integrity of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation is responsible for the operation, inspection, and regulatory oversight of this dam, emphasizing the federal government's commitment to safeguarding water resources and infrastructure in the region. As a key component of the local irrigation system, Barretts Diversion continues to be a vital resource for agriculture and water supply in Beaverhead County.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1720 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVERHEAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
2737 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Barretts Diversion
Beaverhead River