71 Ranch (Bassett) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Rosebud County, Montana, the 71 Ranch (Bassett) dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and the USDA NRCS in ensuring water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 476 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 298 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1200 cubic feet per second.
The dam, situated on Regnal Coulee, falls under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency DNRC, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement practices in place. Despite being rated as low hazard potential and not yet assessed for condition, the 71 Ranch (Bassett) dam presents a moderate risk level. With an uncontrolled spillway and a spillway width of 100 feet, the dam ensures effective water management while also safeguarding against potential risks.
Although lacking in detailed risk management measures and emergency action plans, the 71 Ranch (Bassett) dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Supported by the NRCS and state regulatory agencies, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water security for agricultural, recreational, and emergency purposes in the region, making it a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
476 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
REGNAL COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
39.06 |
Nid Storage |
298 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
71 Ranch (Bassett)