Basin Creek Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Basin Creek Dam #1, also known as Debbi's Dam, is a concrete structure located in Butte, Montana, and was completed in 1897.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 101 feet and has a hydraulic height of 74 feet, with a storage capacity of 1170 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.4 square miles. Its primary purpose is water supply, serving as a vital resource for the local government and community.

Despite its historical significance and essential role in water supply, Basin Creek Dam #1 poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition. The last inspection in July 2019 revealed the need for improvements and maintenance due to its age and structural issues. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the rich history and engineering of Basin Creek Dam #1, as well as the challenges it faces in terms of maintenance and risk management. With its location in the Silver Bow County and proximity to the Basin Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and protection for the local community. Its significance as a water supply source highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure management and the need for continued oversight and investment to ensure its long-term viability.

Year Completed

1897

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

101

River Or Stream

BASIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

74

Drainage Area

12.4

Nid Storage

1170

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

101
       
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.