Orville #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: George Welch Gildford Colony #1000
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Orville #1 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Hill, Montana, along the Sevenmile Coulee river or stream.
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Summary
Built in 1937 for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet with a length of 600 feet. It has a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Orville #1 is regulated and inspected by the state agency. It serves a vital purpose in the region, providing water resources for fire protection and livestock, while also serving as a recreational spot for small fishponds. The dam's location in a sparsely populated area with no nearby town further emphasizes its importance in providing essential water resources for the local community.
Orville #1's historical significance, combined with its functional importance for water resource management, makes it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a key component of the region's infrastructure, this dam plays a crucial role in enhancing water security and supporting various activities in Hill, Montana.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SEVENMILE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
43 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Orville #1