Rafferty #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fox #3 Rafferty #3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rafferty #4 is a private water resource located in Mizpah, Montana, specifically in Custer County.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, livestock, and as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected and enforced by state authorities.
Situated along the TR-Spring Creek, Rafferty #4 has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential services for the surrounding area, showcasing the importance of maintaining and managing water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner. With its location in a scenic natural setting, this private dam serves as a reminder of the critical role water resources play in both environmental conservation and human livelihoods.
As a key infrastructure for water management in the region, Rafferty #4 underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its storage capacity and primary purpose of fire protection, the dam serves as a vital asset in mitigating the impact of droughts and wildfires, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
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.
Rafferty #4