Cowpath Dam
Key Takeaway
Cowpath Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 49 ft (taller than 96.6% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 1,425 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 940 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 190 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 520 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | MT03203 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SHELBY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Sullivan Dam
Toole, MT
High Hazard 49 ftShelby Sewage Lagoon
Toole, MT
Low Hazard 10 ftAlkali Flat
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Low Hazard 25 ftThe Moonspinner
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Low Hazard 25 ftWanken
Toole, MT
Significant Hazard 30 ftFlesch #2
Toole, MT
Low Hazard 15 ftBenjamin, H.E. Jr.
Toole, MT
Low Hazard 20 ftMelcott
Toole, MT
Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cowpath Dam?
Cowpath Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cowpath Dam?
Cowpath Dam is owned by CITY OF SHELBY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cowpath Dam built?
Cowpath Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Cowpath Dam?
Cowpath Dam 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 Cowpath Dam?
Cowpath Dam has a dam height of 49 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.
When was Cowpath Dam last inspected?
Cowpath Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.