Big Sky Dam, also known as Levinski Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Gallatin Gateway, Montana.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1973, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 9.8 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 225 acre-feet. With a height of 52 feet and a length of 400 feet, Big Sky Dam is situated on the Middle Fork West Fork Gallatin River, making it a picturesque destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Big Sky Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of January 2021. Despite being privately owned, the dam's critical role in water management and recreation highlights the importance of monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety.
With its scenic location and vital role in water storage and recreation, Big Sky Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human activity and natural resources. As a key feature in the landscape of Madison County, Montana, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing assessment and regulation in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Sky Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate balance between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FK WEST FK GALLATIN RI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Drainage Area |
5.3 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
52 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Yellow Mule Cabin
|
||
Red Cliff
|
||
Red Cliff Campground
|
||
Moose Creek Flat Campground
|
||
Spanish Creek Cabin
|
||
Bear Creek Campground and Picnic Area
|