Mussigbrod Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Mussigbrod Lake Dam, located in Melrose, Montana, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 8 feet, with a length of 530 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 3,350 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 824 acre-feet, serving the Mussigbrod Creek watershed.

This significant dam has a spillway width of 37 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type. With a hazard potential rated as significant and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," it is crucial for the dam owners and regulatory agencies to ensure regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. While the dam is not under the jurisdiction of the USACE, it is subject to state regulations and inspections by the DNRC in Montana.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the engineering and management aspects of Mussigbrod Lake Dam, as it plays a vital role in supporting agricultural irrigation in the region. The dam's moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and natural habitats. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and management functions for the benefit of local stakeholders and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MUSSIGBROD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

109

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

3350

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.