Jackson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jackson Lake Dam, located in White Sulphur Springs, Montana, serves as a vital irrigation resource in the region.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and was completed in 1936. With a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet, the dam ensures a reliable water supply for agricultural activities in Meagher County.

The dam, situated on the North Fork Woods Gulch Creek, is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and a hazard potential categorized as "High," the dam poses a significant risk in case of emergencies. Despite this, its condition assessment remains satisfactory, and risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential hazards.

Considered a crucial asset for water resource management in the area, Jackson Lake Dam continues to play a key role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring water security for the community. As climate change impacts water availability, the importance of maintaining and monitoring such infrastructure for sustainable water resource management becomes increasingly evident.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

391

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK WOODS GULCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

5.9

Nid Storage

490

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.