Fresno
Key Takeaway
Fresno is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 111 ft (taller than 99.3% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 2,070 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 229.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 129.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9,043 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,828 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 62,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | MT00570 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
California Coulee
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 22 ftRain Dancer
Hill, MT
Significant Hazard 18 ftMcslay,John Estate
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 20 ftMission Mountain
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 20 ftPasma, J.
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 20 ftSupenau Lake
Hill, MT
Significant Hazard 40 ftDaniel #2
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 20 ftMichigan
Hill, MT
Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fresno?
Fresno 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 Fresno?
Fresno is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fresno built?
Fresno 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 Fresno?
Fresno 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 Fresno?
Fresno has a dam height of 111 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 Fresno last inspected?
Fresno was last inspected on August 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.