Big Timber #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: A S Welch #1 Kesterson #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Timber #4 is a privately owned earth dam located on the TR-West Fork Froze-to-Death River in Sanders, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1940 for purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond creation, this dam stands at 18 feet in height and spans 350 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet, Big Timber #4 serves as a vital resource for the local community.
Managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), this dam is regulated and inspected by the state of Montana to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition of Big Timber #4 is currently listed as "Not Rated." With its proximity to the Rosebud County area, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impact of dams on ecosystems and water availability, Big Timber #4 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its historical significance and ongoing role in providing essential services to the community, this dam serves as a focal point for discussions on the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the state of Montana.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK FROZE-TO-DEATH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
123 |
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.
Big Timber #4