Big Bucks #15 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Bucks #14 N E Olsen #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Bucks #15 is a privately owned earth dam located in Garfield, Montana, along the TR-Frazier Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1950, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected for safety and enforcement regularly.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Big Bucks #15 is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. The dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks specific risk management measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps. While the dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, it falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Bucks #15 presents an interesting case study of a privately owned dam in a rural area of Montana. The dam's multiple purposes and its connection to the TR-Frazier Creek highlight the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, monitoring and assessing dams like Big Bucks #15 will be crucial in safeguarding both human and environmental interests.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FRAZIER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
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 #15