Big Elk
Key Takeaway
Big Elk is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 61.7% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 814 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 477 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 75 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 240 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | MT01238 |
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
MARTIN RANCH CO AND C BAR J RANCH LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 35 ftWhite Elk (Wheatland)
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Significant Hazard 14 ftWhite Elk Dam #2
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Low Hazard 8 ftFox, Bill Irrigation
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Low Hazard 20 ftTwodot
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Low Hazard 31 ftLebo #2 Ne Dam
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High Hazard 27 ftAirpump
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Elk?
Big Elk 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 Elk?
Big Elk is owned by MARTIN RANCH CO AND C BAR J RANCH LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Elk built?
Big Elk was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Elk?
Big Elk 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 Elk?
Big Elk has a dam height of 21 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.