Adams #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Adams #4 is a privately owned earth dam located in Rosebud, Montana, along the East Fork Horse Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and a small fish pond with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The structure is 17 feet high and 300 feet long, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated.

Owned and regulated by a private entity, this dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being a non-federal structure, Adams #4 meets state regulatory requirements and is subject to regular state inspections. With its location in a rural area and a low hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and protection in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Adams #4 offers a fascinating example of a historic earth dam that continues to provide essential services for fire protection, livestock, and wildlife in the Rosebud area. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, it highlights the importance of effective regulation and maintenance practices to ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in Montana. Its location along the East Fork Horse Creek also underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and the environment, making it a valuable asset to the local community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

EAST FORK HORSE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.