Erickson #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Erickson #3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Rosebud County, Montana, specifically in the city of Forsyth.


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Summary

Built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet, Erickson #3 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential, Erickson #3 is classified as having a moderate risk level due to unspecified factors. The dam has a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it undergoes regular inspections to assess its structural integrity. The risk management measures for Erickson #3 are not specified in the data, but it is clear that the dam is an essential part of the local water infrastructure, providing valuable services to the community.

Overall, Erickson #3 stands as a testament to the importance of proper water resource management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. With its multiple uses and regulated status, this dam serves as a vital asset for the residents of Rosebud County, Montana, ensuring water availability for various needs while also being mindful of potential risks and safety concerns.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-CROSSMAN COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

4.22

Nid Storage

91

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.