Fox #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Fox #1 is a privately owned dam located in Custer County, Montana, near the city of Mizpah.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, the dam is primarily regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency.

Situated on the Mizpah Creek, Fox #1 has a low hazard potential and is currently in a condition that has not been rated. Despite not having a recent inspection date, the dam remains operational and meets state regulatory guidelines. The surrounding area is sparsely populated, reducing the risk of potential inundation events. Overall, Fox #1 serves as a vital resource for water management in the region, supporting both agricultural and ecological needs while maintaining a low-risk profile for its owners and the community.

Although Fox #1 has not undergone recent risk assessments or emergency action planning updates, its presence provides essential water resources for the area. With its modest size and purposeful design, the dam exemplifies the importance of responsible water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, recognizing the role of structures like Fox #1 in sustaining ecosystems and supporting local communities can inspire efforts towards sustainable water resource management in the region and beyond.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

258

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-MIZPAH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

58

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.