Frenchman Dam
Key Takeaway
Frenchman Dam is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 63 ft (taller than 98% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 2,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 13.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 800 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,460 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 36,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | MT00003 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
STATE WATER PROJECTS
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Frenchman Dam?
Frenchman Dam 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 Frenchman Dam?
Frenchman Dam is owned by STATE WATER PROJECTS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Frenchman Dam built?
Frenchman Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Frenchman Dam?
Frenchman Dam 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 Frenchman Dam?
Frenchman Dam has a dam height of 63 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 Frenchman Dam last inspected?
Frenchman Dam was last inspected on October 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.