Whitetail (Meagher) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Whitetail (Meagher) is a privately owned earth dam located in Meagher, Montana, designed by the USDA NRCS for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1961, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 228 acre-feet, serving the Whitetail Deer Creek. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Whitetail (Meagher) is considered to be in good condition but has not been officially rated. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone any modifications and lacks emergency action plans, inundation maps, and risk management measures. The uncontrolled spillway has a width of 50 feet, providing for controlled water release in case of overflow. The dam's location in Great Falls, 60 miles from the city, makes it an important infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Whitetail (Meagher) as a key structure for maintaining water supply, protecting against fires, and supporting local wildlife. Its presence along the Whitetail Deer Creek contributes to the overall ecosystem health and resilience in Meagher, Montana. With state oversight and regulation in place, this dam serves as a reliable resource for the community while highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
WHITETAIL DEER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
12.03 |
Nid Storage |
228 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Calf Creek Cabin
|
||
Newlan Creek Reservoir FAS
|
||
Moose Creek Campground - Little Belt Mountains
|
||
Moose Creek
|
||
Moose Creek Campground
|
Whitetail (Meagher)
Camp Baker to Eden Bridge