Russell #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Powder River, Montana, the Russell #1 dam is a private structure completed in 1941 for purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Situated along Third Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet, with a dam length of 150 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Owned privately, this dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of 'Not Rated', the Russell #1 dam serves as a vital asset for water resource management in the region. While its specific hydraulic and structural details are not provided, its primary purpose for fire protection and water storage highlights its importance for local communities and ecosystems. As a key component in the area's water infrastructure, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting firefighting efforts, livestock watering, and maintaining aquatic habitats.

Despite its age, the Russell #1 dam continues to be a reliable resource for water management in the region, with a steady annual storage capacity and a relatively low risk profile. While further details on its inspection frequency, emergency action plan, and risk management measures are not available, its presence along Third Creek underscores its importance for addressing water needs in the area. As climate change challenges water resources, structures like the Russell #1 dam will be crucial for ensuring sustainable water use and ecosystem health in the region.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

THIRD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

76

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.