Sands Lake East Dike in Hill, Montana, is a significant earth dam completed in 1911 for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 6.3 feet, with a length of 1400 feet, and a maximum discharge of 110 cubic feet per second. It is located in the city of Havre and diverts water from Beaver Creek for agricultural use, providing essential water resources for the region.
Managed by a private owner, Sands Lake East Dike is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state jurisdiction and permitting in place for inspection and enforcement. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, with its last inspection conducted in June 1995. The hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure in the face of evolving climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sands Lake East Dike serves as a fascinating example of early 20th-century water management infrastructure in Montana. With its historical significance and ongoing agricultural utility, the dam symbolizes the intersection of human intervention and natural resources, prompting discussions on sustainable water use, climate resilience, and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
6.3 |
River Or Stream |
DIVERSON FROM BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
100 |
Hydraulic Height |
6.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
650 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
6 |
Milk River At Havre Mt
|
42cfs |
Big Sandy Creek Near Havre Mt
|
6cfs |
Clear Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
21cfs |
Battle Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
12cfs |
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4290cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Great Northern Fair and Campgrounds
|
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Clack Museum Campground
|
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River Run - Fresno Reservoir - USBR
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Fresno Tailwater FAS
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