Fatzinger Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Fatzinger, located in Savage, Montana, is a privately owned dam built in 1937 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes along the TR-Burns Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 558 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 148 acre-feet. While the dam is classified as low hazard potential, it is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Fatzinger is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam, primarily made of earth, serves as a crucial water resource for the local community and wildlife. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there is no recent inspection or emergency action plan in place. However, the presence of state oversight and regulation ensures that necessary measures can be implemented to mitigate any potential risks and maintain the safety of the dam and surrounding areas.

Located in Dawson County, Fatzinger plays a vital role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local stock and fish populations. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Fatzinger become increasingly important in addressing water security challenges. The presence of state regulatory agencies and the low hazard potential classification highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the long-term functionality and safety of this essential water infrastructure in Montana.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

558

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-BURNS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

148

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.