Puppie Tail Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pike Creek Dam Big Casino Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Puppie Tail is a private irrigation dam located in Fergus County, Montana, along the TR-BREED CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Puppie Tail serves as a vital water resource for agricultural activities in the area.
Managed by the DNRC and regulated by the state of Montana, Puppie Tail plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation within the region. Its location in the Omaha District and under Congressional District 00, Montana, underscores its significance in providing water for the surrounding farmlands. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam's low hazard potential suggests that it is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to the community.
With a spillway width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 765 cubic feet per second, Puppie Tail is equipped to handle potential flood events and ensure the safety of downstream areas. While its emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are not specified, the dam's existence underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key infrastructure for irrigation purposes, Puppie Tail stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal agencies, state regulators, and private owners in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BREED CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.94 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Puppie Tail