Fish (Fergus) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Red Cement Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fish (Fergus) is a private dam located in Fergus County, Montana, along the North Fork McDonald Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 600 feet, providing storage of 171 acre-feet of water for purposes such as fire protection, livestock, and small fish ponds. With a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 50 feet, Fish (Fergus) plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the DNRC and regulated by the state of Montana, Fish (Fergus) has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite not having an emergency action plan in place, measures are taken to mitigate risks associated with the dam and its surrounding area, highlighting the importance of proper water resource management and climate resiliency efforts for enthusiasts in the field.
With its location in the Omaha District and under the jurisdiction of the USACE, Fish (Fergus) serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage and management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the efficient operation and maintenance of dams like Fish (Fergus) are essential for ensuring water security, agriculture, and ecological sustainability. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Fish (Fergus) in water resource management is crucial for building a resilient and sustainable future.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK MCDONALD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.69 |
Nid Storage |
171 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Fish (Fergus)