The majority of dams and canals in Montana were built between 1900 and 1960. Many components of these dams are at the end of their design life and need rehabilitation. For example, dams built prior to 1970 commonly use corrugated metal pipe as outlet material. Corrugated metal is subject to corrosion, and rarely lasts more than 50 years. Replacement of outlet components is usually very expensive, often costing in excess of 1 Million dollars. It is difficult for many dam owners and operators to fund high cost dam repairs. 

Dams have tremendous public benefits in addition to providing irrigation and drinking water. Many reservoirs are used for fishing, boating, and flood control. Montana dam owners are very sensitive to the needs of recreational users and operation their reservoir for multiple uses. However, the dam owners and operators bear much of the cost of operating, maintaining and rehabilitating the dams.

Prolonged drought in the state of Montana has been especially difficult for Montana dam owners.

Development downstream of dams has a direct impact on dam owners. As the population downstream of a dam increases, the dam owner has to deal with increased liability and stricter regulations. Coordination and communication between dam owners, county planners and developers is critical. Proper planning can help to minimize liability for the dam owner.

Many dam and canal owners deal with similar issues. Rodent control, reservoir operation, canal lining, inspection techniques and response to emergencies are some of the many concerns facing dam owners. All dam owners have their share of success stories dealing with these issues. This association is a means of sharing information and experiences with one and other. 

MADCS was organized to help dam and canal owners with these and other critical issues.