Big Bucks #13 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Bucks #11 Caldwell
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Garfield, Montana, Big Bucks #13 is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1960 for purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
The dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.34 square miles. Situated on the TR-Woody Creek, the dam is regulated and inspected by the DNRC, ensuring its safe operation for the surrounding community.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Big Bucks #13 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and a spillway width of 20 feet. Despite not having a current condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain undisclosed. As the dam continues to serve its primary purposes while meeting state regulatory standards, it stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of Big Bucks #13, they can appreciate the collaborative efforts of the Natural Resources Conservation Service in its design and construction. With its strategic location and functionality for fire protection and ecological conservation, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the community. As ongoing assessments and risk management measures are implemented, Big Bucks #13 stands as a symbol of resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource practices for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOODY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
2.34 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
Milk River At Tampico Mt
|
123cfs |
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.
Big Bucks #13