Big Creek Lake
Key Takeaway
Big Creek Lake is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1892 and is 134 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 9.2% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 65 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Normal Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 242 acres |
| Drainage Area | 50 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 250 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1892 (134 years old) |
| NID ID | MT01174 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BIG CREEK LAKE RES ASSN
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Creek Lake?
Big Creek Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Creek Lake?
Big Creek Lake is owned by BIG CREEK LAKE RES ASSN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Creek Lake built?
Big Creek Lake was completed in 1892, making it 134 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 Big Creek Lake?
Big Creek Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Creek Lake?
Big Creek Lake has a dam height of 12 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.