Deer Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Deer Creek, located in Dawson County, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir completed in 1936 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The dam is an earth structure standing at 30 feet tall and 400 feet long, with a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet. The reservoir is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Situated on the South Fork Deer Creek, Deer Creek reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural irrigation in the area. Despite its low hazard potential and the lack of a formal condition assessment, the reservoir serves as a reliable water source for the surrounding community. Its location in a rural setting adds to its charm, making it a hidden gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore Montana's diverse water infrastructure.

With a picturesque setting and a rich history dating back to the 1930s, Deer Creek reservoir is a testament to the importance of water management in sustaining agricultural practices in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of reservoirs like Deer Creek will be essential in ensuring a reliable water supply for future generations. Explore Deer Creek to witness firsthand the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resources in shaping Montana's water landscape.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

183

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.