Oset #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Musselshell County, Montana, Oset #1 is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1945 with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or serving as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Situated along North Willow Creek, this structure has a height of 30 feet and a length of 1000 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, Oset #1 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation.

This dam does not have a designated spillway type or outlet gates, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." Although there are no associated structures or inspection records available, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and serves as a critical resource for fire protection and livestock operations in the area. With its location in a relatively remote region near the city of Mosby, Oset #1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and infrastructure for both human and ecological needs in the Montana landscape.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Oset #1 highlights the intersection of human development and natural ecosystems, showcasing the vital role that dams play in supporting various activities such as fire protection, agricultural operations, and habitat conservation. The presence of regulatory oversight and maintenance protocols underscores the commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of these structures, especially in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands. Oset #1 serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the ongoing efforts to sustainably manage and protect our valuable water assets.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

NORTH WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.