Big Sky Lake Dam (Missoula) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Sky Lake Dam, also known as Fish Lake, is a private dam located in Missoula, Montana, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 446 acre-feet. The dam spans 180 feet in length and covers a surface area of 94.8 acres, impacting the drainage area of Fish Creek.

Situated in a picturesque location in Bonner, Montana, Big Sky Lake Dam presents a significant hazard potential, although its condition has not been officially rated. Despite being under state regulation and inspection, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures remain unspecified. With its close proximity to a recreational area, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and climate activists interested in water resource management and conservation efforts in the region.

While lacking certain critical information like the year of completion and last inspection date, Big Sky Lake Dam's presence in the Missoula County presents an opportunity for further research and advocacy for sustainable dam infrastructure and risk management practices. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the dam's impact on Fish Creek and surrounding ecosystems, there is a growing need for increased awareness and proactive measures to ensure the safety and long-term sustainability of this recreational water feature.

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

FISH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

94.8

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

446

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

7
       
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.