West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

West Dam, located in Phillipsburg, Montana, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 100 feet and has a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment is satisfactory. The last inspection conducted in 2011 found the dam to be in good condition, meeting state regulatory standards for safety and maintenance.

Despite its age and lack of recent modifications, West Dam remains a key feature in the region's water resource management, providing storage and potential flood control benefits. Its location in Deer Lodge County, along with its state jurisdiction and inspection protocols, ensure that the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively. With a designated emergency action plan and regular risk assessments, West Dam reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the surrounding community and environment in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Height

100

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

100
       
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.