Big Timber #13 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Timber #13 is a privately owned earth dam located in Rosebud County, Montana, specifically in the city of Hammond.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 220 feet, it has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 47 acre-feet.

Situated on the TR-West Blacktail Creek, Big Timber #13 is regulated by the state of Montana and falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, and there is no recent inspection data available. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is essential for enthusiasts of water resources and climate to monitor its status and potential risks to ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

For those interested in the intersection of water resource management and climate change, the information provided about Big Timber #13 offers valuable insights into a crucial piece of infrastructure in Montana. As climate variability continues to impact water resources, understanding the condition and regulation of dams like Big Timber #13 becomes increasingly important for ensuring water security and mitigating potential hazards. This data underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment of dam infrastructure to adapt to changing environmental conditions and safeguard against potential risks to communities and ecosystems downstream.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-WEST BLACKTAIL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.