Hanson Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Hanson Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 61 ft (taller than 97.8% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 759 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 860 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 14,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | MT01570 |
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 LEWISTOWN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hanson Creek Dam?
Hanson Creek 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 Hanson Creek Dam?
Hanson Creek Dam is owned by CITY OF LEWISTOWN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hanson Creek Dam built?
Hanson Creek Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Hanson Creek Dam?
Hanson Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hanson Creek Dam?
Hanson Creek Dam has a dam height of 61 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 Hanson Creek Dam last inspected?
Hanson Creek Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.