Claribell #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Garfield County, Montana, Claribell #3 is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this structure stands at 30 feet tall with a length of 60 feet, providing a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Long Branch Creek and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Claribell #3 serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. Although specific details regarding inspections and emergency preparedness are not available, the dam's primary purpose and design reflect a commitment to safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related risks. The presence of this structure highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor developments in the region, Claribell #3 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners, government agencies, and designers to ensure the safety and efficiency of water storage infrastructure. With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting local water needs, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding against potential environmental challenges in the future.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-LONG BRANCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

8.06

Nid Storage

165

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.