Lower Baker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Lower Baker Dam, located in Fallon, Montana, is a noteworthy structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1908, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, impounding Sandstone Creek to create a storage capacity of 1,250 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 680 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 40 feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, the Lower Baker Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and recreational opportunities for the community, showcasing the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

SANDSTONE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

120

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1.19

Nid Storage

1250

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

23
       
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.