Gumbo #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gumbo #4 Cap Rock #4
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gumbo #3 is a private structure located in Terry, Montana, serving multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Built in 1959 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 42 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Harris Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 500 cubic feet per second. It has not been inspected recently, but is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) based on available data. Gumbo #3 is not owned or funded by any federal agencies, and its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated." Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Gumbo #3 a fascinating structure with its unique combination of functions and historical significance. Its location in Custer County, Montana, along with its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, adds to its appeal for those interested in sustainable water infrastructure development. As a key piece of the local water management system, Gumbo #3 offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in maintaining and regulating dams for multiple uses in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HARRIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
7.23 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yellowstone River At Miles City Mt
|
8100cfs |
Tongue River At Miles City Mt
|
263cfs |
Powder River Near Locate Mt
|
231cfs |
Pumpkin Creek Near Miles City Mt
|
0cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
Yellowstone River At Forsyth Mt
|
5430cfs |
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.
Gumbo #3