Desert
Key Takeaway
Desert is classified as low hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 44.5% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 1,005 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 299 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 153 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MT00695 |
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
MARCUS HANDLEY
Private
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Desert?
Desert 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 Desert?
Desert is owned by MARCUS HANDLEY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Desert built?
Desert was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Desert?
Desert 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 Desert?
Desert has a dam height of 20 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.