Brown Buffalo #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones (Yellowstone) Stephen #1
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Brown Buffalo #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Custer, Yellowstone County, Montana.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of water in the TR-Buffalo Creek.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Brown Buffalo #1 is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Despite lacking certain inspection and emergency preparedness details, the dam remains under state jurisdiction with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. As a significant water resource in the region, its maintenance and monitoring are essential for the surrounding ecosystem and community's safety.
Although Brown Buffalo #1 has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain risk assessment and emergency preparedness details, its presence is vital for fire protection, livestock, and aquatic life in the area. As a structure in a state-regulated location, its role in water management and conservation cannot be overstated. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find this dam's history, purpose, and management practices a fascinating study in sustainable water resource utilization.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
60 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Brown Buffalo #1