Hand #3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hand #3, also known as American Prairie Pond 4, is a private irrigation structure located in Saco, Montana.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 18.7 feet and serves as a vital resource for water management in the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 180 acre-feet, making it a crucial component in the local irrigation infrastructure.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Hand #3 is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and effectiveness. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam plays a key role in water distribution for agricultural purposes in Phillips County. The structure is situated on Beaver Creek and has a maximum discharge capacity, although specific details on spillways and outlet gates are not provided.
Despite its age, Hand #3 continues to support the agricultural community in the region, providing a reliable water source for irrigation purposes. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, structures like Hand #3 become even more essential for sustainable water management in Montana. The dam's history, design, and purpose highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring these vital water resources to ensure their continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
18.7 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15.9 |
Nid Storage |
280 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Hand #3