Bass Lake
Key Takeaway
Bass Lake is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1887 and is 139 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 92.6% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 93 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 405 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1887 (139 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1996 |
| NID ID | MT01176 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BASS LAKE RESERVOIR CO.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bass Lake?
Bass Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bass Lake?
Bass Lake is owned by BASS LAKE RESERVOIR CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bass Lake built?
Bass Lake was completed in 1887, making it 139 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bass Lake?
Bass Lake serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bass Lake?
Bass Lake has a dam height of 35 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.