Ester Lake (Phillips)

BIG WARM SPRING CREEK· Phillips, Montana· Built 1954· Earth· 17 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation State Government

Key Takeaway

Ester Lake (Phillips) is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 34.9% in MT)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage758 acre-ft
Normal Storage390 acre-ft
Surface Area137 acres
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDMT01311

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

STATE OF MONTANA, D.F.W.P.

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ester Lake (Phillips)?

Ester Lake (Phillips) 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 Ester Lake (Phillips)?

Ester Lake (Phillips) is owned by STATE OF MONTANA, D.F.W.P. (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ester Lake (Phillips) built?

Ester Lake (Phillips) was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Ester Lake (Phillips)?

Ester Lake (Phillips) 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 Ester Lake (Phillips)?

Ester Lake (Phillips) has a dam height of 17 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.