Clausen Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burke #1 Pr-156 Retention Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Clausen is a private dam located in Saco, Montana along the Spring Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet, primarily serving the purposes of fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Clausen is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place.
Situated in Phillips County, Clausen's location is monitored for potential risks and emergency preparedness, although specific data such as last inspection date, condition assessment date, and emergency action plan details are currently not available. Despite being privately owned, the dam is not funded or operated by federal agencies, and does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The dam's primary source agency is the state of Montana, reflecting the importance of state-level oversight in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clausen represents a historical piece of infrastructure that continues to play a vital role in local water management and conservation efforts. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, understanding the condition and regulatory framework of dams like Clausen is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. The data provided offers a glimpse into the complex network of agencies and stakeholders involved in dam management, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and risk mitigation strategies to adapt to a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Clausen