Singer Sayer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Singer Sayer, located in GILDFORD, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1936 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Situated on the O'BRIEN COULEE river, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is in a low hazard potential category.

Despite its age, Singer Sayer has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection date is unknown. This lack of recent evaluation raises concerns about the structural integrity and potential risks associated with the dam. With the surrounding area vulnerable to climate change impacts, including increased precipitation and extreme weather events, ensuring the safety and maintenance of this vital water resource is crucial for mitigating potential hazards and protecting the local community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to advocate for the regular inspection and maintenance of Singer Sayer to prevent any potential dam failures and safeguard the water supply and ecosystem it supports. By staying informed and engaged in the monitoring and management of critical infrastructure like Singer Sayer, we can contribute to the resilience and sustainability of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

O'BRIEN COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

58

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.