Lower Indian Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Lower Indian Creek Reservoir, located in Big Horn County, Montana, is a privately owned water resource that serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond habitat.
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Summary
Constructed in 1950, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 54 acre-feet. The reservoir is situated on Indian Creek and covers a surface area of 350 feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Lower Indian Creek Reservoir is not currently rated for its condition. The dam's inspection frequency, emergency preparedness, and risk management measures are not documented, raising concerns about its resilience to potential hazards. As a state-regulated and permitted structure, the reservoir falls under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring compliance with safety and enforcement measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Indian Creek Reservoir presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam serving diverse purposes in a rural Montana community. The lack of recent inspection data and condition assessments highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water source. As concerns about climate change and water scarcity grow, understanding the management and regulation of reservoirs like Lower Indian Creek becomes crucial for preserving our natural resources and mitigating potential risks.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Lower Indian Creek Reservoir