Bill Christensen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ron Jacobson Dam Marine Dam
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Located in Sanders, Montana, the Bill Christensen Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, this private-owned earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the area. With a height of 17.3 meters and a length of 1337 meters, the dam has a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, ensuring a reliable water supply for the surrounding community.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the Bill Christensen Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The dam, situated on the TR-Little Bitterroot River, plays a crucial role in water management in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of climate change. With its strategic location and efficient design, the dam serves as a vital component in ensuring water security and environmental conservation in the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts appreciate the significance of infrastructure like the Bill Christensen Dam, they recognize the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety standards. With its unique features and role in supporting agriculture, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human innovation and natural resource management, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1337 |
Dam Height |
17.3 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BITTERROOT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17.3 |
Nid Storage |
116 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flathead River Near Polson Mt
|
12200cfs |
Flathead River At Perma Mt
|
12300cfs |
Mill Cr Ab Bassoo Cr Nr Niarada Mt
|
2cfs |
Clark Fork Near Plains Mt
|
18200cfs |
South Crow Creek Near Ronan Mt
|
9cfs |
Mission Cr Ab Reservoir Nr St Ignatius Mt
|
19cfs |
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.
Bill Christensen Dam