Dreves Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dreves is a private earth dam located in Yellowstone, Montana, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1938, this dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and has state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

With a significant hazard potential, the condition of Dreves is currently not rated, and there is no information available on its emergency action plan (EAP) or risk assessment. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified over the years and does not have any associated structures. Located in a coulee along the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dreves plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and livestock in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dreves presents an interesting case study of a privately owned earth dam in Montana. With its historical significance, unique purpose, and state regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a key infrastructure for local water management and agricultural needs. Further research and monitoring of Dreves could provide valuable insights into the resilience and sustainability of water resources in the region, especially in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

170

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

39
       
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.