Round Butte Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Round Butte Reservoir, located in Rosebud, Montana, is a private water resource managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this irrigation reservoir has a dam height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Round Butte Reservoir is to provide water for irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 196 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Round Butte Reservoir is a reliable water source for the surrounding agricultural community. The reservoir is situated along the TR-East Fork Lit Porcupine Creek and serves as an essential water management infrastructure in the region. Although the reservoir has not been inspected or assessed for emergency preparedness recently, its stable condition and low hazard potential indicate a well-maintained and secure water resource for the community.

Managed by private owners, Round Butte Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation activities in the area. With its strategic location and reliable water storage capabilities, the reservoir contributes to sustainable water management practices and agricultural development in Rosebud, Montana. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Round Butte Reservoir highlights the importance of efficient water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring water availability for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-EAST FORK LIT PORCUPINE CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

288

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.