Wood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Wood Lake Dam, located in Lewis and Clark County, Montana, is a federal structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, the dam stands at a height of 13 feet and serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water resource management. With a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a drainage area of 16 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Wood Creek and providing flood control for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Wood Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with an inspection frequency of every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," efforts are in place to monitor and mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wood Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the local ecosystem, this earth-type dam provides valuable water storage and flow regulation, contributing to the sustainable management of the surrounding water resources. With its strategic location in Lewis and Clark County and its historical significance as a federal structure, Wood Lake Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with the preservation of natural habitats in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

194

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.