Shipley Reservoir (Powder R.) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Shipley Reservoir, located on the Powder River in Montana, is a private irrigation reservoir completed in 1961 with a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, the dam is primarily used for agricultural purposes and is regulated by the state with regular inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The low hazard potential dam sits on TR-Pilgrim Creek and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Shipley Reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation activities in the region and is a key component of the local water infrastructure. The reservoir's location in Powder River County, Montana, adds to its significance in the water resource management of the area.

With a length of 1535 feet, Shipley Reservoir provides reliable water storage for agricultural needs in the Powderville area. While its exact surface area and drainage area are not specified, the reservoir's construction as an earth dam demonstrates its durability and efficiency in water storage. Encompassing a rich history of water management in Montana, Shipley Reservoir is a valuable asset for the community and plays a vital role in sustaining the region's agricultural activities amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

1535

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-PILGRIM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

125

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.