Little Warm Spring Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Warm Spring Creek in Saco, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation dam completed in 1938 with a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 1371 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the dam is located on the Little Warm Creek and serves the primary purpose of irrigation. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Phillips County.

Situated in Congressional District 00 of Montana, Little Warm Spring Creek Dam is essential for maintaining water supply for agricultural activities in the region. Although the dam has not been inspected recently and lacks specific risk assessment measures, its strategic location and historical significance make it a valuable asset for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates. The dam's presence on the Little Warm Creek contributes to the overall ecosystem health and water sustainability efforts in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable water management practices, the Little Warm Spring Creek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of irrigation infrastructure in rural Montana. With a storied past and continued relevance in modern water resource discussions, this privately owned dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water regulation, maintenance, and environmental stewardship. Its presence on the Little Warm Creek showcases the delicate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

LITTLE WARM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

1371

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.