Sunrise Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunrise Lake, located in Madison, Montana, is a private water resource managed for irrigation purposes by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1916, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Wisconsin Creek and serves as a critical water source for agricultural activities in the area.

Despite its age, Sunrise Lake is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam has been classified as having a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of effective risk management strategies and emergency preparedness. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the DNRC remains vigilant in monitoring and maintaining the dam to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

With its picturesque location and historical significance, Sunrise Lake stands as a vital irrigation infrastructure in the region, reflecting the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the delicate balance required to sustainably utilize this vital water source while safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring the continued viability of agricultural activities in the area.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

103

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

WISCONSIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.