Basin Creek Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Basin Creek Dam #2, located in Butte, Montana, was completed in 1907 and serves as a vital water supply resource for the area.


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Summary

With a height of 49 feet and a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet, this earth-type dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding community. The dam is situated on Basin Creek, with a drainage area of 4.72 square miles, providing essential water for irrigation, municipal, and industrial purposes.

Despite its importance, Basin Creek Dam #2 is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is currently in poor condition, according to a 2015 assessment. The dam's last inspection was conducted in July 2019, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its integrity and safety. With its proximity to residential and commercial areas, it is crucial for stakeholders to address the dam's condition and implement risk management measures to safeguard the community and the environment.

As a locally owned structure regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Basin Creek Dam #2's significance extends beyond water supply to include environmental protection and public safety. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are essential for ensuring a reliable and sustainable water resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

BASIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

4.72

Nid Storage

290

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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.