Parsell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Famolare
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Parsell, W.
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Summary
is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Liberty, Montana, along the Bear Gulch river. Constructed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 670 feet, providing a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. With a drainage area of 6.87 square miles and a maximum discharge of 54 cubic feet per second, Parsell, W. plays a crucial role in agricultural water management in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Parsell, W. is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated. Emergency Action Plans (EAP) and risk management measures are yet to be prepared or updated for Parsell, W., highlighting the need for proactive measures to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the long-term resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure.
As a key component of the irrigation system in the area, Parsell, W. serves as a critical water source for agricultural activities in Liberty, Montana. With its strategic location and design features, this dam underscores the importance of effective water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in ensuring sustainable water supply for the community. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Parsell, W. are essential to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the continued availability of water for irrigation purposes in the region.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
6.87 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Parsell, W.