Waro Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hansen Shotgun Creek Dike #2
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Waro Reservoir, located in Bainville, Montana, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The reservoir, completed in 1946, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a dam height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet, Waro Reservoir provides a critical water source for the surrounding area, particularly during dry periods.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Waro Reservoir is situated on TR-West Shotgun Creek and covers a surface area of 14 acres with a drainage area of 9 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the reservoir's condition has not been rated, and there is limited information available on its emergency action plan and risk management measures. As a key water source in the region, Waro Reservoir plays a vital role in supporting local ecosystems and agricultural activities, making it a significant asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and protect.
As one of the many water resources in Roosevelt County, Montana, Waro Reservoir contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area. With its primary purpose being fire protection and livestock watering, the reservoir plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of local agriculture and the protection of natural resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the management and conservation of reservoirs like Waro become increasingly important for ensuring water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST SHOTGUN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
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.
Waro Reservoir