Taylor Reservoir (Fergus) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Taylor Reservoir, also known as Cottonwood Dam, is a private-owned earth dam located in Fergus, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1951 for irrigation purposes, the dam stands at a height of 27 feet with a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet. The reservoir is situated on the South Fork Cottonwood Creek and covers a surface area of 19 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Taylor Reservoir has been deemed to have a low hazard potential with a condition assessment of 'Not Rated'. Despite lacking certain data points such as spillway type and maximum discharge, the dam meets state regulatory standards and undergoes regular inspections for enforcement and safety. With its strategic location in a drainage area of 4386 acres, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation for the region.
Although Taylor Reservoir may not have a high-risk profile, its significance in providing water for agricultural purposes cannot be understated. With its stable condition and operational history, the dam serves as a testament to sustainable water resource management in Montana, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
586 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK COTTONWOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
4386 |
Nid Storage |
320 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
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.
Taylor Reservoir (Fergus)