Shay Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mccarter West Dam Hellinger
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Shay Dam, located in Toole, Montana, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. Situated on TR-WILLOW CREEK, Shay Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural activities in the region.
Regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Shay Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Despite lacking specific data on spillway type, surface area, and drainage area, Shay Dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the area.
With its historical significance dating back over a century, Shay Dam serves as a reminder of the crucial role that irrigation dams play in sustaining agricultural activities in Montana. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Shay Dam will be essential in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring water security for future generations. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, exploring the history and functionality of Shay Dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Shelby Mt
|
305cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Cut Bank Creek At Cut Bank Mt
|
138cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
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.
Shay Dam