Homestead Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Homestead Dam, located in Roosevelt, Montana, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the U.S.
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Summary
Fish and Wildlife Service. Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 19,000 feet, creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along Big Muddy Creek. With a normal storage capacity of 2,435 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 8,445 acre-feet, this dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining the local ecosystem.
Despite its low hazard potential, Homestead Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, as of the last inspection in October 2016. The dam underwent modifications in 1990 and 1991 to enhance its hydraulic and structural components. It is equipped with outlet gates for controlled water release, including slide gates. The dam's inspection frequency is set at five years, and it does not fall under state jurisdiction, regulation, or inspection.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Homestead Dam presents an intriguing case study in balancing conservation efforts with infrastructure maintenance. Its role in providing a habitat for fish and wildlife highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices. However, the dam's deteriorating condition underscores the ongoing challenge of ensuring the safety and functionality of aging water structures. As discussions around the future of water resources continue to evolve, Homestead Dam serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human intervention and natural ecosystems in the face of climate change.
Years Modified |
1990 - Hydraulic, 1991 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
19000 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
BIG MUDDY CREEK - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1300 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
128 |
Nid Storage |
8445 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Homestead Dam