Ballard #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Timber #41 Ja Montgomery #1
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Ballard #1, located in Forsyth, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1941 for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The dam has a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 16 acre-feet. Situated on Horse Creek, this dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state jurisdiction and permitting in place. Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Ballard #1 serves as a crucial water resource for the local community.
With its strategic location in Rosebud County, Montana, Ballard #1 plays a key role in managing water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes. The dam's association with Horse Creek highlights its significance in maintaining water availability for both livestock and wildlife in the area. While the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, its operational efficiency and state-regulated status ensure its compliance with safety standards and inspection protocols. Furthermore, the dam's construction by a private entity reflects the collaborative efforts between government agencies and private landowners in promoting sustainable water management practices.
As an essential infrastructure for water storage and management, Ballard #1 demonstrates the importance of small-scale dams in addressing local water resource needs. Its historical completion in 1941 underscores its enduring role in providing water for various purposes, from fire protection to livestock watering. The dam's location in the Omaha District and its low hazard potential further emphasize its contribution to the community's resilience against water-related risks. Overall, Ballard #1 represents a valuable asset in ensuring water security and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Ballard #1