Snake Ranch Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Snake Ranch is a privately owned irrigation facility located in Belknap, Montana, along Snake Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this Earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 800 feet. With a storage capacity of 349 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting agricultural activities in the area. Although it has not been rated for condition assessment, the hazard potential is considered low.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Snake Ranch is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The facility is situated in Blaine County and falls under the jurisdiction of Congressional District 00, represented by Greg Gianforte. Despite being non-Federal, the structure meets state guidelines for emergency action plans, although specific dates for assessments and preparations are currently unavailable. Overall, Snake Ranch plays a vital role in supporting water resource management and agriculture in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water use in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
349 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Snake Ranch