Sturgis Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sturgis, also known as Sidney Water Users - Sturgis #2, is a privately owned earth dam located in Richland County, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Yellowstone River. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 390 feet, Sturgis has a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 96 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is currently not rated for its condition, with the last inspection taking place in December 2001.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Sturgis is situated in a critical location just 4 miles from Sidney, Montana. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates are designed to manage potential flood events effectively. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains under state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Although Sturgis does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, its risk management measures are being actively monitored to mitigate any potential threats.
In conclusion, Sturgis plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding, demonstrating the importance of proper infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience. As a key component of the flood risk reduction system in Montana, Sturgis serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and natural resources from the impacts of extreme weather events. With its strategic location and state-regulated operations, Sturgis stands as a testament to the collaboration between government agencies and private owners in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-YELLOWSTONE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Sturgis
State Highway 260 Clarendon County