Lone Tree Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lone Tree is a private irrigation dam located in Saco, Montana, along the TR-Beaver Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1946 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Lone Tree serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, supporting agricultural activities in Phillips County.

Managed by the DNRC, Lone Tree is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, with a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Despite its age, Lone Tree continues to play a vital role in water management in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Lone Tree provides valuable insight into the infrastructure that supports agricultural activities in Montana. With a focus on conservation and sustainability, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water management and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges. By understanding and monitoring the condition of dams like Lone Tree, we can work towards ensuring the long-term resilience of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

2.98

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.