Swift (Pondera)
Key Takeaway
Swift (Pondera) is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 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 | 205 ft (taller than 99.8% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 573 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 34.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30.0K acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 33,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | MT00581 |
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
PONDERA CANAL & RES. CO.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swift (Pondera)?
Swift (Pondera) 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 Swift (Pondera)?
Swift (Pondera) is owned by PONDERA CANAL & RES. CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swift (Pondera) built?
Swift (Pondera) was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Swift (Pondera)?
Swift (Pondera) 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 Swift (Pondera)?
Swift (Pondera) has a dam height of 205 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 Swift (Pondera) last inspected?
Swift (Pondera) was last inspected on October 5, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.