Yellow Water Dike
Key Takeaway
Yellow Water Dike 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 | 11 ft (taller than 8.4% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 545 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 450 acres |
| Drainage Area | 55 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 180 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1986 |
| NID ID | MT03205 |
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
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Yellow Water Dike?
Yellow Water Dike 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 Yellow Water Dike?
Yellow Water Dike is owned by STATE WATER PROJECTS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Yellow Water Dike built?
Yellow Water Dike 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 Yellow Water Dike?
Yellow Water Dike 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 Yellow Water Dike?
Yellow Water Dike has a dam height of 11 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 Yellow Water Dike last inspected?
Yellow Water Dike was last inspected on October 25, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.