Chessman Saddle Dam
Key Takeaway
Chessman Saddle Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 27 ft (taller than 79.3% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 105 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 114 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 590 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1988 |
| NID ID | MT01562 |
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
CITY OF HELENA
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chessman Saddle Dam?
Chessman Saddle Dam 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 Chessman Saddle Dam?
Chessman Saddle Dam is owned by CITY OF HELENA (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chessman Saddle Dam built?
Chessman Saddle Dam was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Chessman Saddle Dam?
Chessman Saddle Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Chessman Saddle Dam?
Chessman Saddle Dam has a dam height of 27 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.
When was Chessman Saddle Dam last inspected?
Chessman Saddle Dam was last inspected on August 27, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.