Buffalo Wallow Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whisker Dam Fergus County #1
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Buffalo Wallow Dam, located in Fergus County, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 807 feet. While its primary purpose is unspecified, it serves as a crucial water resource in the region, storing 186.37 acre-feet of water and covering a surface area of 26.38 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential and not being regulated by the state, Buffalo Wallow Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources and supporting the local ecosystem. The dam, built with buttress and stone core types, sits on an intermittent river or stream and is designed to withstand potential downstream impacts. The last inspection in July 2013 rated its condition as not rated, indicating the need for further assessment and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and functionality.
Buffalo Wallow Dam's historical significance, coupled with its role in water storage and management, makes it a valuable asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts. With its location in the Omaha District and under the ownership and funding of the Bureau of Land Management, the dam represents a blend of engineering expertise and environmental stewardship in preserving water resources in Montana. Further assessments and risk management measures will be essential to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness and safety in the face of changing climate patterns.
Dam Length |
807 |
River Or Stream |
INTERMITTENT |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
26.38 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
186.37 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
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.
Buffalo Wallow Dam