Hook #49 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barley Reservoir Hook #55
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hook #49, located in Rosebud County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1951 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes along the Pennick Coulee.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a dam height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, this structure serves as a valuable resource in the region. Managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Hook #49 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, Hook #49 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam's location in Thurlow, Montana, and its association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight its importance in flood control and irrigation activities. While lacking certain features such as spillways and outlet gates, the dam continues to provide essential services to the local community, showcasing the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Hook #49, they can appreciate its historical significance and ongoing relevance in maintaining environmental balance. With its primary purpose of serving as a fire protection reservoir and supporting livestock and aquatic life, this earth dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for multiple benefits. By understanding the regulatory framework and maintenance requirements associated with Hook #49, individuals can gain a deeper appreciation for the intersection of water management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
PENNICK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Hook #49