Lower Baker Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Baker Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 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 | 23 ft (taller than 66.4% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 320 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 120 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 680 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | MT01263 |
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
FALLON COUNTY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Baker Dam
Fallon, MT
High Hazard 20 ftMildred #1
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Low Hazard 21 ftHalmans #3
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Low Hazard 20 ftHalmans #1
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Low Hazard 20 ft761 Lang
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Low Hazard 21 ftThielen #1
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Baker Dam?
Lower Baker 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 Lower Baker Dam?
Lower Baker Dam is owned by FALLON COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Baker Dam built?
Lower Baker 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 Lower Baker Dam?
Lower Baker Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Baker Dam?
Lower Baker Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Lower Baker Dam last inspected?
Lower Baker Dam was last inspected on June 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.