South Sandstone Creek Dam

SOUTH SANDSTONE CREEK· Fallon, Montana· Built 1975· Earth· 47 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation State Government

Key Takeaway

South Sandstone Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 47 ft (taller than 96.5% in MT)
Dam Length2,908 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage930 acre-ft
Surface Area119 acres
Drainage Area48 sq mi
Max Discharge2,050 cfs
Year Completed1975 (51 years old)
NID IDMT02005

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: Yes
Last Inspection: June 8, 2022
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 South Sandstone Creek Dam?

South Sandstone Creek Dam 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 South Sandstone Creek Dam?

South Sandstone Creek Dam 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 South Sandstone Creek Dam built?

South Sandstone Creek Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 South Sandstone Creek Dam?

South Sandstone Creek Dam 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 South Sandstone Creek Dam?

South Sandstone Creek Dam has a dam height of 47 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 South Sandstone Creek Dam last inspected?

South Sandstone Creek Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.