Okaga Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Okaga Lake, located in Yaak, Montana, is a private water resource managed by the DNRC.


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Summary

This Earth dam was completed in 1950 and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 843 acre-feet, Okaga Lake provides vital water resources for the surrounding area.

Although the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, it is regulated by the state of Montana and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The lake's primary purpose for fire protection highlights its significance in the region's ecosystem and its importance for mitigating the risk of wildfires. Despite its age, Okaga Lake continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Lincoln County.

With its tranquil waters and vital role in fire protection and stock maintenance, Okaga Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate enthusiasts, the data on Okaga Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water practices and the need to protect and preserve vital water sources for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WINDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

843

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.