Newlan Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Newlan Creek Dam, located in Meagher, Montana, is a critical structure managed by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes along the Newlan Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at 112 feet high and has a storage capacity of 15,600 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 43.4 square miles. Despite its importance for irrigation, the dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, with a risk level of moderate (3).

The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 65 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,260 cubic feet per second. The last inspection conducted in June 2021 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the urgency for maintenance and risk management measures. With the primary purpose of irrigation, Newlan Creek Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, but its deteriorating condition underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of the structure for both agricultural and environmental purposes.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

112

River Or Stream

NEWLAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

317

Hydraulic Height

108

Drainage Area

43.4

Nid Storage

15600

Structural Height

131

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

131
       
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.