Reclamation doing safety inspections at Fresno

From Bureau of Reclamation

BILLINGS — The Bureau of Reclamation is conducting safety investigations at Fresno Dam beginning in September into December, which will lead to some road restrictions next week.

The various investigations are being conducted in support of Reclamation’s Safety of Dams Program and are designed to collect geotechnical data. The data analyzes the characteristics of the structure below the surface, including embankment and foundation characteristics, Fresno Reservoir Road asphalt and road bed samples, and dewatering tests in support of design activities associated with the proposed modification of Fresno Dam.

The investigations will involve drilling several exploratory holes within the dam embankment and roadway. No change in reservoir operations is anticipated as a result of the investigations.

“Collection of design data to support project development for the proposed dam safety modification is critical to assuring the best information is available to the design team to protect public safety and the needs of our stakeholders relying on water resources,” Acting Montana Area Manager Tom Sawatzke said.

Reclamation crews were mobilized to the site Sept. 18 to begin work on the dam. As part of the investigation, the drilling of holes is expected to be completed within the Fresno Reservoir Road and will necessitate a temporary road restriction to a single 10-foot driving lane Sunday through Thursday next week. Traffic control signage will be utilized when work is being conducted and will remain in place until work is complete.

Construction of Fresno Dam was completed in 1939. The dam is located on the Milk River about 15 miles west of Havre and is owned and operated by Reclamation.