South Axolotl Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
South Axolotl Lake Dam, located in Madison, Montana, is a gravity dam owned and operated by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
This federal structure stands at a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 282 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 65.98 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.27 acres, serving the purpose of water resource management in the region.
The dam features a controlled spillway and has been assessed to have a low hazard potential, but an unsatisfactory condition. Despite being under the jurisdiction of the DOI BLM and not regulated by the state, the dam poses a very high risk according to a risk assessment. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in September 2017, with an inspection frequency of 5 years, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water resource infrastructure.
With its unique design and significant role in managing water resources in the area, South Axolotl Lake Dam serves as a key structure in the region's water management system. As climate change continues to impact water availability and distribution, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like South Axolotl Lake Dam become critical in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water resources for both human and environmental needs.
Dam Length |
282 |
River Or Stream |
MULTIPLE UNNAMED DRAINAGES |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
12.27 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
65.98 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
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.
South Axolotl Lake Dam
Madison River