Simple Simon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Simple Simon Dam, located in Phillips County, Montana, is a gravity dam owned and managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

The dam, situated on an unnamed drainage, stands at a structural height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet. It has a length of 254 feet and a storage capacity of 283.25 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in November 2018.

Constructed by the Bureau of Land Management, Simple Simon Dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. With its unique design featuring buttress and stone core types, the dam not only provides essential storage capacity but also supports the surrounding ecosystem. Although it does not have a designated primary purpose listed, the dam contributes to flood control, irrigation, and recreational activities in the region.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in Montana, Simple Simon Dam is a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal agencies in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability. With its strategic location and modest storage capacity, the dam continues to serve the community while adhering to regulatory standards set by the Bureau of Land Management. Despite not having a current condition assessment, ongoing inspections and maintenance practices are essential to ensure the dam's long-term functionality and safety for all stakeholders.

Dam Length

254

River Or Stream

UNNAMED DRAINAGE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

66.49

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

283.25

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.