32 Discovery Dr.
Bozeman, MT 59718
SAM UEI: LYARYWD1YSZ1
CAGE: 1GHU7
Estler Lake Dam is a remote mountain dam located in the East Pioneer mountain range in the Beaverhead National Forest near Dillon, MT. It is an on-stream storage reservoir located on Estler Creek, a tributary of Rattlesnake Creek. The dam has an earthen embankment that is roughly 330 feet long and an embankment height of 35 feet. The reservoir has a normal storage volume of 470 acre-feet. The dam is owned and operated by Rattlesnake Reservoir and Water Company who holds an easement from the United States Forest Service. The site is accessed by foot or ATV. The dam was built over a hundred years ago and required several upgrades to increase its longevity.
AESI first evaluated the dam for the required 5-year engineer inspection. After producing and submitting the inspection report to the DNRC and USFS, AESI completed a feasibility study to evaluate alternatives for rehabilitation. The feasibility study involved close coordination and collaboration with the Owner as well as the DNRC and USFS. Next, AESI completed final design and permitting for the preferred alternative. AESI also provided assistance to the Owner through the construction phase of the project. Highlights of the project are provided below.