Mclaren Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Best Rocky Twist Tulkarm
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
McLaren Dam, located in Blaine, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Completed in 1890, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high and spans 450 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes on the Hay Coulee river. With a normal storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a drainage area of 35.2 square miles, McLaren Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its historical significance, McLaren Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam has undergone modifications in 1905 and 1930, with an uncontrolled spillway and a valve outlet gate. The last inspection conducted in September 2020 revealed the need for improvements to address the dam's deteriorating state. However, its risk assessment remains moderate, indicating the importance of timely maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of this vital water infrastructure.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like McLaren Dam become increasingly important. With its critical role in irrigation and water storage, efforts to address its poor condition and mitigate risks are essential for sustainable water management in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the necessary measures to safeguard McLaren Dam and other similar structures for the future.
Years Modified |
1905 - Other, 1930 - Other |
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
HAY COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
192 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
35.2 |
Nid Storage |
3275 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Mclaren Dam