Wales Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wales Creek Reservoir, located in Bonner, Montana, is a privately-owned irrigation reservoir designed by the USDA NRCS in 1953.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam has a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 268 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. Situated on the Wales Creek, the reservoir covers a drainage area of 13.91 square miles and has a low hazard potential.

Managed by the DNRC and regulated by the state, Wales Creek Reservoir has a maximum discharge of 390 cfs and a spillway width of 40 feet. Despite not being rated for its condition, the reservoir is inspected, permitted, and enforced by Montana authorities. With its picturesque location and vital role in water resource management for the area, Wales Creek Reservoir is a significant asset in sustaining agriculture and supporting the local community's water needs.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wales Creek Reservoir stands out as an essential infrastructure contributing to sustainable irrigation practices in Powell County, Montana. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s and ongoing state regulation and inspection, the reservoir serves as a reliable water source for agricultural activities in the region. As efforts continue to ensure the reservoir's safety and efficiency, it remains a key component in water management strategies and climate resilience initiatives in the area, showcasing the importance of responsible water resource development and maintenance.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

307

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

WALES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

13.91

Nid Storage

268

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.