Lamesteer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lamesteer Dam, located in Wibaux, Montana, was completed in 1938 by the U.S.


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Summary

Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Biological Survey. This Federal-owned structure serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Lamesteer Creek, with a primary purpose of supporting the local ecosystem. The dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height matching that figure. Its design involves an Earth core supported by Stone foundations, spanning a length of 1830 feet and offering a maximum storage capacity of 1470 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lamesteer Dam received an Unsatisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in September 2020. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as Moderate (3), highlighting the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures. With no state regulation or jurisdiction, the Federal agency DOI FWS oversees the operation and maintenance of this vital water resource. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique characteristics and challenges of Lamesteer Dam present an intriguing case study in sustainable water management and infrastructure maintenance.

Years Modified

1953 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1830

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LAMESTEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

110

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

31.9

Nid Storage

1470

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.