Pawlowski Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: L Pawlowski #1 Wheatley Farms #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Pawlowski Reservoir, located in Circle, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1950 for irrigation purposes on Horse Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this reservoir has a storage capacity of 779 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 61 acres and a drainage area of 49 square miles, Pawlowski Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Pawlowski Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. While its condition is currently not rated, ongoing inspections and maintenance contribute to safeguarding the reservoir and its stored water for irrigation purposes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pawlowski Reservoir presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation reservoir in rural Montana. Its location, design, and purpose highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in agriculture and the role of regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of essential water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, reservoirs like Pawlowski play a critical role in supporting local communities and sustaining agricultural operations in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
61 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
49 |
Nid Storage |
779 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Poplar River Near Poplar Mt
|
28cfs |
Yellowstone River At Glendive Mt
|
6000cfs |
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.
Pawlowski Reservoir