Emmons #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: C Smith #1 Watters #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Emmons #1 is a privately owned dam located in Powder River, Montana, specifically on Mizpah Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, the dam has a normal storage level of 77 acre-feet and a low hazard potential.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Emmons #1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in overall good condition and poses minimal risk. It is situated in a scenic location, approximately 59 miles from the city of Locate, and falls within Congressional District 00, represented by Greg Gianforte.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Emmons #1 to be an interesting structure due to its historical significance, multifunctional purpose, and relatively low hazard potential. Its location on Mizpah Creek adds to the charm of this earth dam, which continues to serve the local community for fire protection and livestock needs while also providing a habitat for small fish. With its state-regulated status and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, Emmons #1 stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Montana.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MIZPAH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
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.
Emmons #1