Storm Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Storm Lake Dam, located in Anaconda, Montana, is a vital piece of infrastructure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1898, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2150 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 1.9 square miles and a maximum discharge of 520 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam, situated on Storm Lake Creek, is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2015. With a history dating back over a century, Storm Lake Dam continues to serve as a key component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding area.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the maintenance and proper management of dams like Storm Lake Dam become increasingly crucial. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, this dam plays a vital role in water management and agricultural activities in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices for a changing climate.

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

STORM LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

78

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

2150

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.