Turkey Track Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Turkey Track is a privately-owned dam located in Hinsdale, Montana, along the TR-White Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 420 feet in length, providing essential storage of 84 acre-feet for purposes such as fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Turkey Track serves as a reliable resource for the local community.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Turkey Track is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With the primary purpose of providing essential services, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. While it has not been modified in recent years and its emergency action plan status is unknown, Turkey Track continues to serve its intended functions effectively.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, structures like Turkey Track are vital for maintaining water supply and mitigating the risks of droughts and wildfires. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Turkey Track stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-WHITE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.