Lake Thibadeau Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Thibadeau Diversion Dam in Montana, managed by the U.S.


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Summary

Department of Agriculture, serves as a crucial structure for creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the LOHMAN COULEE. Completed in 1938, this Earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 1125 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 566 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 3676 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and supporting wildlife habitat.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam underwent modifications in 2003 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. An uncontrolled spillway and slide gates contribute to the efficient management of water levels, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's presence, with a surface area of 29.7 acres and a drainage area of 75.7 acres, providing a valuable resource for both wildlife and the community. With its strategic location in Hill, Montana, Lake Thibadeau Diversion Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Years Modified

2003 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1125

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

LOHMAN COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.7

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

75.7

Nid Storage

566

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.