Big Bucks #11 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Bucks #13 Jensen Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Bucks #11 is a private earth dam located in Garfield, Montana, on Camp Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, livestock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.25 square miles.
While the dam has a low hazard potential, it is deemed to have a moderate risk level (3) based on the data available. The dam is state-regulated by the DNRC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam is regularly monitored for any potential risks or issues. Overall, Big Bucks #11 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, providing essential services for both human and environmental needs.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Bucks #11 is a key structure to study in the context of sustainable water management practices. With its varied purposes and moderate risk level, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resource management, infrastructure design, and environmental stewardship in Montana. Its location on Camp Creek and the surrounding landscape make it a valuable case study for those interested in the dynamics of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
CAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1.25 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
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 #11