Raymond Storage (Sheridan) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Raymond Storage in Sheridan, Montana is a local government-owned water resource facility situated along the TR-McCoy Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a significant hazard potential, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring its safe operation and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its age, Raymond Storage continues to function effectively, with a normal storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 1200 cubic feet per second. The dam's location in Plentywood, within the Congressional District 00 of Montana, highlights its importance in providing essential water resources for local communities and wildlife habitats. While the condition assessment of the dam has not been rated, its emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures remain unspecified, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparedness to mitigate potential risks and ensure the continued safety and functionality of this vital water storage structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Raymond Storage facility offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical development and current management of water infrastructure in Montana. Its role in providing essential services for fire protection, livestock, and aquatic ecosystems underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With its significant hazard potential and state-regulated status, Raymond Storage serves as a critical example of the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization with environmental conservation and public safety in the region.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

13.9

River Or Stream

TR-MCCOY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10.3

Nid Storage

144

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.