California Coulee
Key Takeaway
California Coulee is classified as low hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 63.5% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 225 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 108 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 59 acre-ft |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | MT03437 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
JOSEPH SCHOENBORN
Private
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of California Coulee?
California Coulee is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates California Coulee?
California Coulee is owned by JOSEPH SCHOENBORN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was California Coulee built?
California Coulee was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 California Coulee?
California Coulee serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is California Coulee?
California Coulee has a dam height of 22 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.