Willow Belt Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pirate Dam Dawson Ranch #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Willow Belt is a private irrigation dam located in Fort Benton, Montana, along the Big Willow Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.
Despite its low hazard potential and current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Willow Belt serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, offering a reliable source of water for agricultural activities. The dam is situated in a picturesque location in Cascade County and plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage for irrigation needs. With its primary purpose being irrigation, Willow Belt continues to contribute to the sustainable use of water resources in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Willow Belt in the local water infrastructure, as it represents a historical and functional asset in the management of water resources in Montana. As part of the broader network of dams and structures in the area, Willow Belt highlights the importance of responsible water management practices to support agricultural activities and maintain a balanced ecosystem. With state regulation and oversight in place, this private dam serves as a key player in ensuring water security and sustainability for the community of Fort Benton and beyond.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3620cfs |
Belt Creek Near Monarch Mt
|
14cfs |
Missouri River Near Ulm Mt
|
3150cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Smith River Near Eden Mt
|
119cfs |
Sun River Near Vaughn Mt
|
2680cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Thain Creek Campground
|
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Thain Creek
|
||
Thain Creek Camp Ground
|
Willow Belt