R Downs #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Big Horn, Montana, R Downs #4 is a privately owned irrigation dam on TR-PERITSA CREEK, completed in 1950.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 17 feet and with a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, this earth dam serves the purpose of providing water for agricultural irrigation in the region. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, with no recent inspection data available.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), R Downs #4 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its primary purpose being irrigation, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local agricultural community by providing water storage and distribution capabilities. The dam's location in HARDIN, Montana, along with its modest size and volume, highlights its importance in sustaining water resources for the area's farming activities.

While the specific details about the dam's construction, maintenance, and emergency preparedness are limited, its historical significance as a water management structure in a semi-arid region like Montana underscores the importance of proper monitoring and upkeep. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable water use practices, R Downs #4 serves as a reminder of the vital role that irrigation dams play in supporting agriculture and mitigating water scarcity challenges in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-PERITSA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.