Dog Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Dog Creek Reservoir, also known as Spotted Dog Dam, is a private-owned water resource located in Avon, Montana.


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Summary

Built in 1954 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 32.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet. Situated on Spotted Dog Creek, the reservoir covers an area of 18.2 acres and serves as a vital source of water for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Dog Creek Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance. Despite lacking certain risk assessment measures, the reservoir's importance in supporting irrigation activities in Powell County makes it a crucial water resource in the area.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Dog Creek Reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural operations in Avon. With its proximity to the Congressional District of Montana and the oversight of state regulatory agencies, the reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

32.5

River Or Stream

SPOTTED DOG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.2

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

176

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.