Pyba Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pyba Reservoir, also known as Clear Water Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Garfield County, Montana.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 590 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. The reservoir is situated along Thompson Creek, with a significant hazard potential due to its size and location.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Pyba Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safe operation. The reservoir's condition assessment is currently not rated, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are not clearly defined, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pyba Reservoir presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship. As part of the larger hydrological system in the area, this reservoir serves as a vital source of water for agricultural activities and highlights the complexities of managing water resources in a dynamic and evolving landscape. With its historical significance and ongoing operational challenges, Pyba Reservoir offers a glimpse into the critical role that dams play in sustaining water security and resilience in the face of climate variability and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

THOMPSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

590

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.