Red Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fish (Fergus) Cement Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Red is a private earth dam located in Fergus County, Montana, specifically in the city of Winnett.
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Summary
Completed in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 700 feet, Red has a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cfs.
Situated on the North Fork McDonald Creek, Red is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state. The dam has a spillway type of uncontrolled with a width of 100 feet, and is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite being rated as in moderate risk condition, Red is not currently assessed for its condition and lacks an emergency action plan.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Red offers a fascinating case study in dam management and risk assessment in a rural setting. With its unique combination of purposes and significant hazard potential, Red presents a valuable opportunity for further research and exploration into the intricacies of water resource management in Montana.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK MCDONALD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.69 |
Nid Storage |
143 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Red