Blue Shoes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Robertson Reservoir Charangus
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blue Shoes is a private earth dam located in Garfield, Montana, along Skeleton Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1955, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, Blue Shoes contributes to the water resource management in the area. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.
Despite its low hazard potential, Blue Shoes has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, and there are no inundation maps prepared for potential risk assessment. However, the dam meets state regulatory requirements and is regularly inspected for safety and compliance. With its location in a remote area and limited associated structures, Blue Shoes remains a crucial asset for water storage and conservation in the region.
As an enthusiast interested in water resources and climate, Blue Shoes presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned earth dam contributing to fire protection, stock water supply, and fish habitat. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, this structure showcases the importance of proper regulation and maintenance for sustainable water management practices. While facing some challenges in terms of emergency preparedness and risk assessment, Blue Shoes serves as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in supporting local ecosystems and communities, and the need for continued monitoring and oversight to ensure their safety and functionality.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
SKELETON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Blue Shoes