Medicine Lake Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dewey Beaver Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Medicine Lake Dam No.
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Summary
4, located in Sheridan, Montana, is a Federal-owned structure designed by the Bureau of Biological Survey and completed in 1935. This earth dam, standing at 15 feet high and spanning 3600 feet in length, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Lake Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 67,100 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 21,835 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is rated as poor as of the last inspection in October 2016. Despite this, the risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The primary purpose of Medicine Lake Dam No. 4 is to support fish and wildlife habitat, making it an essential component of the local ecosystem. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a fascinating example of the intersection between infrastructure, conservation, and environmental stewardship in Montana.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
3600 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
LAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8663 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
842 |
Nid Storage |
67100 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Medicine Lake Dam No. 4