Cherry Creek #15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cherry Creek #15 is a privately owned dam located in Rosebud, Montana, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Little Porcupine Creek, this low hazard potential structure is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities.

With a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet, Cherry Creek #15 serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, offering protection against wildfires and providing water for livestock and small fish. Despite its age, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and it has not been assessed for potential risks or emergency preparedness. Greg Gianforte, the Congressional Representative for Montana, oversees the district where this dam is located, ensuring that it meets regulatory standards and is maintained for the safety of the community and the environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Cherry Creek #15 will appreciate its historical significance and functional purpose in the region. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Cherry Creek #15 stands as a testament to the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing demands on water resources.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE PORCUPINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.