Failing #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hanson #1 Barta, A.J. #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Failing #3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Miles City, Montana, along the TR-Fire Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1948, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. It stands at 24 feet high with a length of 471 feet, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition.
The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes. While the dam has not been assessed for its condition, it is considered to meet guidelines for emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures. With a location in a relatively low-risk area and no significant modifications or incidents reported, Failing #3 continues to play a vital role in maintaining water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Failing #3 represents a historical engineering feat that continues to provide essential services to the community. Its presence along the TR-Fire Creek showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices, especially in arid regions like Montana. As discussions around dam safety and maintenance gain prominence, Failing #3 serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in balancing human needs with environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
471 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FIRE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Failing #3