Black Sea Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Black Sea Reservoir in Montana is a privately owned water source that serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this Earth dam stands at 28 feet high and has a storage capacity of 1,097 acre-feet. Located in Rosebud County, the reservoir is regulated by the state and maintained by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

Situated along the TR-West Blacktail Creek, the Black Sea Reservoir offers a vital water source for local agricultural and emergency services needs. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the reservoir provides a reliable and secure water supply for the surrounding community. Despite its small size, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, the Black Sea Reservoir contributes to the overall water management strategy in Montana. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, the reservoir ensures the safety and reliability of its water storage capacity for various uses. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Black Sea Reservoir presents an intriguing case study in sustainable water management practices and the importance of private ownership in ensuring water security for local communities.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-WEST BLACKTAIL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

1097

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.