Lower Elliot Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Elliot Lake, located in Deer Lodge, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The dam, built in 1924, stands at 10 feet high and spans 105 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Lower Elliot Lake is irrigation, serving the surrounding agricultural lands in Powell County.

The dam's low hazard potential and current condition assessment of "Not Available" suggest a stable and secure water source for the region. With no recent inspection data available, the risk assessment and emergency preparedness status remain unclear. Despite the lack of detailed information on safety measures, Lower Elliot Lake stands as a testament to early 20th-century water resource management and plays a vital role in supporting local agriculture in the area.

Overall, Lower Elliot Lake offers a glimpse into Montana's historical irrigation infrastructure and highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key player in supporting agricultural activities in Powell County, this reservoir serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between water resources, climate resilience, and the agricultural industry.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

105

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Tr- Dempsey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

6

Nid Storage

76

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.