Middle Axolotl Lake #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Middle Axolotl Lake #1 is a private water resource located in Madison County, Montana, specifically in the city of VARNEY.
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Summary
Constructed in 1945, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, the dam primarily regulates the flow of TR-MORAN CREEK, providing water for irrigation and livestock as well as protecting the surrounding area from potential fire hazards.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Middle Axolotl Lake #1 has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite not having a recent inspection date, the dam has been reported to be in good standing and meets state regulatory standards. With a maximum storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 32 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the importance of this small yet vital structure in maintaining water balance and ecosystem health in the area.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MORAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Middle Axolotl Lake #1
Madison River