Billings #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Billings #2 Billing Spring #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Billings #3 is a private-owned earth dam located in Garfield, Montana, along TR-Big Dry Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1938 for irrigation purposes, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 342 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Billings #3 is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Although lacking detailed information on its spillway, locks, and other associated structures, Billings #3 has a maximum discharge capacity of 3015 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose of irrigation highlights its crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a history dating back to the late 1930s, Billings #3 continues to play a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water supply stability in the area.
As a significant feature in the local landscape, Billings #3 provides a glimpse into Montana's water infrastructure and the importance of dams in supporting irrigation needs. With its strategic location and regulated operations, this dam serves as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management and ensuring the safety of its critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
342 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
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.
Billings #3