Ron Jacobson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Located in Lake County, Montana, the Ron Jacobson Dam stands as a testament to efficient water resource management for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam reaches a height of 25 feet and provides a storage capacity of 364 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Little Bitterroot River, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes are in place.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Ron Jacobson Dam remains a reliable infrastructure for water storage and distribution in the region. Although it has not undergone any modifications since its completion, the dam's primary purpose of irrigation continues to serve the local community effectively. The surrounding area benefits from the controlled discharge of up to 300 cubic feet per second, maintaining water levels and ensuring efficient water usage for agricultural needs.

Managed by private owners, the Ron Jacobson Dam exemplifies the importance of state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight in maintaining water resources. The dam's strategic location in Dixon, Montana, and its proximity to the Seattle District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers highlight its significance in supporting sustainable water management practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ron Jacobson Dam stands as a symbol of responsible infrastructure development that prioritizes water conservation and agricultural sustainability.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

556

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE BITTERROOT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

364

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.