Weppler #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Weppler #1, located in Stillwater, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1950 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 35 feet and a length of 350 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 264 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 22 acres. It is situated on TR-BIG COULEE CREEK and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, Weppler #1 serves as a vital water resource infrastructure for the surrounding area, offering protection against fires and supporting agricultural activities. While lacking certain safety assessments and emergency preparedness measures, the dam remains an integral component of the local water management system. As climate change continues to impact water resources, monitoring and maintaining structures like Weppler #1 will be crucial for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving conditions.

Given its location in a congressional district represented by Greg Gianforte, Weppler #1 highlights the intersection of water resource management, infrastructure development, and climate adaptation efforts in Montana. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and regulatory oversight of dams like Weppler #1 can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-BIG COULEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

39.2

Nid Storage

264

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.