Witcher Reservoir Report
Nearby: Russiff #2 Ness #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Witcher Reservoir in Montana, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1954, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Situated in Custer County, the reservoir on Big Bobcat Creek has a dam height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the reservoir is state-regulated and inspected regularly by the DNRC to ensure its safety and functionality.
Located in the city of Mizpah, Witcher Reservoir is a crucial water resource in the region, offering storage for emergency firefighting efforts and sustaining local livestock. The earth dam structure, with a length of 510 feet, provides essential water storage for the surrounding area and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to manage excess water flow. Despite its low hazard potential, the reservoir is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its operational integrity.
Managed by a private owner, Witcher Reservoir is a key asset for the community, supporting both agricultural and environmental needs. With a history of serving the area for over half a century, the reservoir continues to play a vital role in water management and resource conservation efforts in Montana. Through diligent state oversight and regular inspections, Witcher Reservoir remains a reliable and essential component of the local water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BOBCAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
2.34 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
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.
Witcher