Barrett Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Barrett, J.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Dam, located in Grant, Montana, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet. Sitting on the Rape Creek, the dam serves a drainage area of 7.34 square miles and has a maximum discharge rate of 50 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 6 acres, Barrett, J. Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the Beaverhead County.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not having a current condition assessment rating, Barrett, J. Dam remains regulated by the state of Montana through the Department of Natural Resources Conservation. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, the dam is still in operation and continues to provide essential irrigation water to the surrounding agricultural lands. With its strategic location and design, the dam contributes to the overall water management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Barrett, J. Dam in the context of water security and agricultural sustainability in Montana is crucial. This structure, with its modest height and storage capacity, symbolizes the intricate balance between water management, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation. By recognizing the role of dams like Barrett, J. Dam in supporting local economies and ecosystems, we can appreciate the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1750

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

RAPE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

7.34

Nid Storage

158

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.