Paradise Diversion

MILK RIVER· Blaine, Montana· Built 1905· Concrete· 21 ft tall
Low Hazard Irrigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Paradise Diversion is classified as low hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1905 and is 121 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 61.7% in MT)
Dam Length570 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage185 acre-ft
Normal Storage150 acre-ft
Drainage Area5,960 sq mi
Year Completed1905 (121 years old)
NID IDMT00586

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Paradise Diversion?

Paradise Diversion 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 Paradise Diversion?

Paradise Diversion is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Paradise Diversion built?

Paradise Diversion was completed in 1905, making it 121 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 Paradise Diversion?

Paradise Diversion 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 Paradise Diversion?

Paradise Diversion has a dam height of 21 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.

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.