Gibbs Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frady #1 (Mccone) Walkerville
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Garfield, Montana, Gibbs, Gerold is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 667 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 285 acre-feet. It is situated on TR-TIMBER CREEK, within the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gibbs, Gerold is not currently rated for its condition but is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the state. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 140 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second, serving a drainage area of 4.78 square miles. Despite lacking certain risk management measures and emergency action preparedness, the dam remains a vital resource for water retention and fire protection in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gibbs, Gerold presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in Montana, showcasing the importance of proper design, maintenance, and regulation for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of such structures. With its historical significance and functional purposes, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that water infrastructure plays in supporting various societal needs, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing and safeguarding water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
667 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TIMBER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
4.78 |
Nid Storage |
285 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Yellowstone River At Miles City Mt
|
8100cfs |
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.
Gibbs, Gerold