Philips Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Hi-Ki Pen Dam Hiers Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Phillips, Montana, the Philips dam is a vital water resource managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and stretches 675 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 487 acre-feet, the dam regulates Cottonwood Creek's flow, ensuring a steady water supply for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its age, the Philips dam boasts a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, the dam continues to fulfill its intended function without major concerns. With the state of Montana regulating its operations and inspections, the dam remains a crucial asset for water management in the area, contributing to the sustainable use of water resources for irrigation and environmental conservation.
As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the Philips dam plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable water access for agriculture in Phillips County. With its historical significance and ongoing relevance in water management, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.97 |
Nid Storage |
487 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Milk River At Malta Mt
|
0cfs |
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.
Gordon Kearse Dam