Willow Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Willow Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 105 ft (taller than 99.1% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 453 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 26.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 18.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 885 acres |
| Drainage Area | 155 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1946 |
| NID ID | MT00022 |
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
STATE WATER PROJECTS
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Willow Creek Dam?
Willow 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow Creek Dam is owned by STATE WATER PROJECTS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Willow Creek Dam built?
Willow Creek Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow 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 Willow Creek Dam?
Willow Creek Dam has a dam height of 105 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 Willow Creek Dam last inspected?
Willow Creek Dam was last inspected on October 19, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.