Pablo Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pablo is a federally owned water resource located in Lake, Montana, primarily managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 43 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 27,500 acre-feet, Pablo's primary source agency is the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs, ensuring its operations, construction, and regulatory oversight.

Despite its age, Pablo's hazard potential is considered high, with a very high risk assessment rating. However, its condition assessment is not available, and the last inspection was conducted in 2012 with a scheduled frequency of 5 years. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is not readily available, raising concerns about its readiness in case of a disaster. With its controlled spillway and a history of federal funding and construction, Pablo remains a significant water resource for fire protection and agricultural needs in the region.

This dam on the Pablo Canal in Montana's Lake County plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, enthusiasts and stakeholders must monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and upkeep of structures like Pablo to ensure their continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

10550

River Or Stream

PABLO CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

27500

Structural Height

43

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

43
       
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.