Mcferran #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcferran #3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Big Horn, Montana, near the city of Pompeys Piller.


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Summary

Completed in 1928, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and a small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 225 feet, Mcferran #3 has a storage capacity of 339 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 107 acre-feet.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Mcferran #3 is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated as of yet. The dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, indicating its primarily local significance.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcferran #3 offers a glimpse into the historical development of water infrastructure and management in Montana. Its multi-functional design reflects the diverse needs of the local community, from fire protection to agricultural water supply. The dam's location along the TR-FLY CREEK in the Omaha District further highlights its importance in the region's water resource management.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-FLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

339

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.