Ds Scott #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hardin Sewage Lagoon D G Orchowski #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ds Scott #1 is a private earth dam located on Little Dry Creek in Big Horn, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1935 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a dam height of 13 feet and a length of 1100 feet, it has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7.81 square miles. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 75 feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Ds Scott #1 is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam is regulated, inspected, and permitted by the state of Montana, with enforcement conducted by the DNRC. While the condition assessment is currently rated as 'Not Rated', the risk management measures and emergency action plan status are unknown. The dam is situated in Congressional District 00, Montana, under the jurisdiction of Greg Gianforte (R), and falls under the Omaha District of the USACE.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intricacies of dam infrastructure will find Ds Scott #1 to be a fascinating case study. Its historical significance, multiple uses, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in Montana. As a privately owned structure, it highlights the importance of collaboration between government agencies, designers, and owners to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
7.81 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Ds Scott #1