Big Bucks #8 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Bucks #9 Binions Reservoir #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Bucks #8 is a privately owned dam located in Garfield, Montana, along the TR-East Fork Woody Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond support. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam is regulated by the Montana DNRC and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated in Congressional District 00, Montana, Big Bucks #8 is managed by a private owner and is not federally owned or funded. With a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's risk management measures are in place to address any potential issues that may arise. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Big Bucks #8 to be an important structure in the region, contributing to the overall water supply and ecosystem balance.
Overall, Big Bucks #8 is a significant asset in the water resource infrastructure of Montana, providing essential services for both human and environmental needs. With its historical completion in 1955 and ongoing state regulation and inspection, this dam serves as a vital component in the management of water resources, particularly for fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond support. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and oversight of dams like Big Bucks #8 are crucial in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST FORK WOODY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
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 #8