Ninepipe Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kicking Horse Crow
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ninepipe is a federal-owned irrigation reservoir located in Charlo, Montana.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this earth dam was completed in 1911 and serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock watering, and recreation. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 15,150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2,800 feet, making it a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Ninepipe is closely monitored for safety and maintenance. The dam's controlled spillway and 38-foot structural height ensure proper water management and flood control. Despite its age, the dam is in good condition with a regular inspection frequency of 5 years. The Emergency Action Plan was last revised in 2015, indicating proactive measures in place to address any potential risks or emergencies.
Situated in a scenic location in Lake County, Ninepipe offers not only essential water resources for irrigation but also recreational opportunities for visitors. The reservoir's historical significance and its role in supporting agriculture and wildlife make it a valuable asset in sustaining the local ecosystem and economy. As a key infrastructure managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Ninepipe represents a long-standing commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
2800 |
River Or Stream |
FEEDER CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
15150 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Crow Creek Near Ronan Mt
|
9cfs |
Mission Cr Ab Reservoir Nr St Ignatius Mt
|
27cfs |
Flathead River Near Polson Mt
|
8210cfs |
Flathead River At Perma Mt
|
8540cfs |
South Fork Jocko River Near Arlee Mt
|
83cfs |
Clark Fork Near Plains Mt
|
11300cfs |
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.
Ninepipe