Noxon Rapids

Clark Fork River· Sanders, Montana· Built 1960· Gravity· 135 ft tall

High Hazard Hydroelectric Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Noxon Rapids is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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	135 ft (taller than 99.5% in MT)
Dam Length	5,840 ft
Dam Type	Gravity
Max Storage	400.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	400.0K acre-ft

Surface Area	7,940 acres
Drainage Area	21,800 sq mi
Max Discharge	364,000 cfs
Year Completed	1960 (66 years old)
NID ID	MT00223

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: July 26, 2022

State Regulated: No

Ownership

Avista Corporation

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Noxon Rapids?

Noxon Rapids 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 Noxon Rapids?

Noxon Rapids is owned by Avista Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Noxon Rapids built?

Noxon Rapids was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Noxon Rapids?

Noxon Rapids serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Noxon Rapids?

Noxon Rapids has a dam height of 135 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 Noxon Rapids last inspected?

Noxon Rapids was last inspected on July 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.