Lacosta Sand Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gliblet Southerland Lacosta
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Garfield, Montana, the Lacosta Sand Creek Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the vital role of water resources in sustaining agricultural activities.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1969 for irrigation purposes, this private-owned earth dam spans 1320 feet in length and reaches a height of 20 feet along the picturesque Sand Creek. With a storage capacity of 483 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the local farming community in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the Lacosta Sand Creek Dam is subject to state regulations, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing assessment and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safeguard against potential risks.
As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the Lacosta Sand Creek Dam serves as a tangible reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its strategic location and historical significance in supporting local agriculture, this dam stands as a beacon of resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges, making it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1320 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
483 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lacosta Sand Creek Dam