A S Welch #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

A S Welch #1 is a private dam located in Rosebud, Montana, along the West Fork Froze-To-Death Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is considered to have a low hazard potential.

This structure, owned and operated privately, plays a vital role in water resource management in the area, providing essential services for fire protection and agricultural needs. Its location in Sanders, Montana, makes it a key asset for maintaining water supply and supporting local wildlife habitats. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety.

As a part of the larger water infrastructure network in Montana, A S Welch #1 serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. By understanding and evaluating the condition of structures like this dam, water resource and climate enthusiasts can work towards ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water systems in the region for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

WEST FORK FROZE-TO-DEATHCR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

81

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.