Middle Creek Lake (Cascade) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Middle Creek Lake in Cascade, Montana is a privately owned irrigation reservoir designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the DNRC.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 584 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 338 acre-feet. Situated along Middle Creek (E.F. Hound Creek), this reservoir serves the purpose of irrigation for agricultural needs in the area.

With a drainage area of 5.9 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, Middle Creek Lake plays a significant role in water resource management in the region. Its spillway width of 30 feet and hazard potential rated as significant highlight the importance of proper inspection and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of the dam. While the condition assessment is currently listed as 'Not Rated', the presence of state oversight and enforcement mechanisms indicates a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the structure.

Located in the city of Great Falls, Middle Creek Lake offers a vital water source for agricultural activities in Cascade County, Montana. As a key component of the local irrigation system, this reservoir underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Middle Creek Lake continues to play a crucial role in supporting the agricultural economy and water security of the area.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

285

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MIDDLE CREEK(E.F.HOUND CREEK)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

5.9

Nid Storage

584

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.