Big Bucks #16 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jensen Dam Binion #4
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Bucks #16 is a privately owned earth dam located in Garfield, Montana, along the TR-SOUTH FORK WOODY CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1950 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, serving the local community in various ways.
Despite being categorized with a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition assessment is listed as 'Not Rated,' the state of Montana regulates, inspects, and enforces the safety protocols of Big Bucks #16. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 20 feet and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second.
With its historical significance and importance for local water resources, Big Bucks #16 serves as a key asset in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and risk management measures associated with this dam can provide valuable insights into its role in maintaining water security and resilience in the area.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH FORK WOODY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.56 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Milk River At Tampico Mt
|
123cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
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 #16