White Elk Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
White Elk is a privately owned dam located in Wibaux, Montana, on TR-SMITH CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1955, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam is classified as an Earth type with a height of 20 feet and a length of 324 feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), White Elk is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with water resource management laws. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently not reported, indicating a potential area for improvement in emergency preparedness. Additionally, the dam is not under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, highlighting the local authority in overseeing its operations and maintenance.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, White Elk presents an intriguing case study of a mid-century dam still in use for various agricultural and environmental purposes. Its location in a rural setting and reliance on a small stream for water supply showcase the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining the dam's functionality and safety. As the dam continues to serve the local community in Savage, Montana, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate on improving emergency response plans and assessing potential risks to enhance the resilience of this essential water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
324 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SMITH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
White Elk