Jones (Yellowstone) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brown Buffalo #1 Stephen #1
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Jones (Yellowstone) is a privately-owned dam located in Custer, Montana, on Buffalo Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and has a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond creation. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, Jones (Yellowstone) serves as a critical resource for local fire protection and livestock water supply. The dam's strategic location and historical significance make it a valuable asset in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. While it may not have undergone recent inspections or assessments, the dam continues to play a crucial role in the community's water infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of dams like Jones (Yellowstone) in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability. By understanding the regulatory framework, purpose, and condition of such structures, we can better appreciate their role in mitigating risks, supporting agriculture, and preserving ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions. Jones (Yellowstone) stands as a testament to the importance of responsible dam ownership and management in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Jones (Yellowstone)