Fortune #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Fortune #3 is a privately-owned dam located in Custer County, Montana, along Haddow Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a maximum storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 29 acre-feet, Fortune #3 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Fortune #3 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although specific details on the dam's structure and features are limited, it is evident that this dam contributes to the overall water infrastructure in the area and provides essential services to the local community. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, Fortune #3 ensures the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

While Fortune #3 may not be as well-known as other larger dams, its significance lies in its contributions to fire protection, livestock watering, and recreational purposes. As a part of the overall water management system in Custer County, Montana, this dam exemplifies the importance of smaller-scale structures in ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for both human and environmental needs. With a focus on safety and compliance with state regulations, Fortune #3 continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

HADDOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

83

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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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.