Rafferty #5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fox W Krutzfeldt #3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rafferty #5 is a privately owned irrigation dam located on Mizpah Creek in Custer, Montana.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 459 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of irrigation, Rafferty #5 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition of Rafferty #5 has not been rated, and there is no information available on its emergency action plan or risk assessment. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have any associated structures or outlet gates. Located in Congressional District 00, Montana, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Rafferty #5 to be an intriguing subject for further study due to its historical significance and the potential implications of its condition on water management and sustainability in the area. As a key infrastructure for irrigation, understanding the maintenance and regulation of this dam can provide valuable insights into the broader challenges and opportunities related to water resource management in Montana and beyond.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1595 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MIZPAH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
459 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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 #5