L Sayer-Magdalena Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 31, 2025
Located in Poplar, Montana, the L Sayer-Magdalena dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Constructed in 1959, this dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this earth dam on TR-CHELSEA CREEK is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to state inspections and enforcement.
Despite its simple design and relatively small size, the L Sayer-Magdalena dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet, this dam helps support local fire protection efforts and provides water for livestock and recreational fishing. Its location in a rural setting underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure development for both human and ecological needs.
As climate change continues to impact water resources across the globe, the L Sayer-Magdalena dam serves as a reminder of the importance of resilient and well-maintained infrastructure. With state-regulated operations and a history of providing essential water services to the community, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship in a changing world.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHELSEA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
L Sayer-Magdalena