Apache Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Apache Dam, located in Carter, Montana, along Lone Tree Creek, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The primary purpose of this gravity dam is flood risk reduction, with a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 73.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20.96 acres, serving the vital function of mitigating potential flooding in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Apache Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 2 feet and has not been significantly modified since its completion, although the exact year of construction is unspecified. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are crucial in maintaining the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

In the event of an emergency, the Bureau of Land Management oversees operations at Apache Dam and works to uphold regulatory standards for its maintenance and upkeep. With Greg Gianforte representing the area in Congress, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the local area from potential flooding events, underscoring the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Dam Length

2025

River Or Stream

LONE TREE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20.96

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

73.4

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.