Michel #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Guesanborn Guesenburu, Michel
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Michel #1 is a privately owned dam located in Garfield, Montana, on the TR-SAND CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, primarily serving the purposes of fire protection, stock water supply, and as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to ensure its safe operation.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Michel #1 poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. While the dam has not been inspected in recent years, it meets state regulatory guidelines and is in compliance with necessary safety measures. While there are no specific emergency action plans or risk assessments in place at this time, the dam's overall risk management is handled by the private owner, with the support of state agencies.
Located in a picturesque setting near VAN NORMAN, Michel #1 is a historic structure that continues to provide essential water resources for the local community. With its modest size and important functions, the dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that such structures play in both water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
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.
Michel #1