Downs #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lambing Shed Big Timber #27
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Downs #1 is a privately owned dam located in Rosebud County, Montana, specifically in the city of Sanders.
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Summary
Completed in 1946, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes. Situated on the TR-E Fork Froze to Death Creek, this dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Downs #1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a capacity to store 67 acre-feet of water and a maximum height of 14 feet, this dam contributes to fire protection, livestock watering, and recreational fishing activities. The dam's location in a remote area underscores its importance for local water supply and ecosystem support, making it a key infrastructure for climate and water resource enthusiasts to monitor and assess for sustainable management practices.
As a part of the Omaha District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Downs #1 has not undergone recent inspection or risk assessment, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and efficacy. With its strategic location on the TR-E Fork Froze to Death Creek, this dam serves as a vital water management structure for the community, emphasizing the importance of sustainable dam operations and risk management in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of infrastructure like Downs #1 is essential for promoting resilient and adaptive water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR-E FORK FROZE TO DEATHCR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Downs #1