Big Timber #27 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Quell #1 Big Timber #24
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Timber #27 is a privately owned earth dam located in Sanders, Montana, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1940, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-W Fork Froze-To-Deathcr river, this structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by the DNRC and falling under state jurisdiction, Big Timber #27 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While lacking specific data on spillways and drainage areas, this dam serves as a key component in maintaining water levels for various purposes in the area. Despite not being federally regulated or funded, the dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its functionality and safety.
With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Big Timber #27 represents a vital piece of infrastructure for water management and conservation efforts in Rosebud County, Montana. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like this dam in maintaining sustainable water supplies for various stakeholders cannot be understated. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Big Timber #27 to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental sustainability.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-W FORK FROZE-TO-DEATHCR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Big Timber #27