Big Elk Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcfarland-White White Elk (Wheatland)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Elk, formerly known as Martin & C Bar J Res, is a private irrigation dam located in Wheatland, Montana.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1927, this earth dam stands at 21.3 feet high and spans 814 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 477 acre-feet. Situated on Big Elk Creek in the city of Twodot, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Big Elk has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 240 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area and highlights the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in water management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Elk represents a noteworthy example of a privately owned irrigation dam that contributes to the local agricultural economy in Montana. With its historical significance dating back to the 1920s, this earth dam stands as a testament to the essential role of water infrastructure in supporting communities and sustaining livelihoods. The ongoing state oversight and management of Big Elk underscore the critical need for responsible stewardship of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing demand for sustainable water practices.
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
814 |
Dam Height |
21.3 |
River Or Stream |
TR- BIG ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
75.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.8 |
Drainage Area |
6.6 |
Nid Storage |
1000 |
Structural Height |
21.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Big Elk