Bonanza

BONANZA CREEK· Meagher, Montana· Built 1938· Earth· 44 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Bonanza is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 44 ft (taller than 95.7% in MT)
Dam Length1,020 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage409 acre-ft
Normal Storage350 acre-ft
Surface Area25 acres
Drainage Area8 sq mi
Year Completed1938 (88 years old)
NID IDMT01154

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

DAVID A VOLDSETH

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bonanza?

Bonanza is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bonanza?

Bonanza is owned by DAVID A VOLDSETH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bonanza built?

Bonanza was completed in 1938, making it 88 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Bonanza?

Bonanza serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bonanza?

Bonanza has a dam height of 44 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.