Babcock Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Babcock is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Racetrack, Montana, along the TR-LOST CREEK river.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at 15 feet tall and spans 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Babcock is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Despite its low hazard potential, Babcock's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation of its structural integrity and maintenance needs. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and its emergency action plan (EAP) status is unknown. However, with a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a location within Deer Lodge County, Babcock plays a crucial role in providing water resources for agricultural activities in the region.

As a part of the irrigation infrastructure in Montana, Babcock represents a vital link in the water supply chain for local farmers and landowners. With its solid construction and state oversight, Babcock serves as a reliable source of water for the surrounding area, contributing to the sustainability of agriculture in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Babcock in water management and conservation efforts is essential for ensuring a secure and efficient water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-LOST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

93

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.