Tabor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tabor is a federally owned structure located in St.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Ignatius, Montana, along Dry Creek. Built in 1930 by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Tabor serves primarily for irrigation purposes but also offers recreational benefits. The earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans 535 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 23,090 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Tabor has a high hazard potential due to its location and condition assessment, which is currently not available. The emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, indicating a need for updated risk management measures. With a very high risk assessment rating, Tabor falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for regulatory oversight, inspections, and operations, ensuring the safety of downstream communities in the event of a breach or emergency situation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Tabor can appreciate its historical significance in providing irrigation water to the surrounding area while recognizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential risks. As a controlled spillway dam, Tabor plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of residents in Lake County, Montana. Its location within the Seattle District underscores the collaborative efforts between federal agencies in managing water resources and protecting the environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

535

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

23090

Structural Height

53

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

53
       
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.