Quell #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Quell #1 is a privately owned dam located in Rosebud County, Montana, along the West Fork Froze to Death Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement compliance.

Despite its low hazard potential, Quell #1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, providing essential water storage for various purposes. The dam's condition has not been rated, and there are no recent inspection records available, indicating a need for updated assessments to ensure its continued safety and functionality. However, its strategic location and purpose make it an important asset for the community, especially in times of emergency or drought.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Quell #1 contributes to the overall resilience of the region against potential climate challenges. Its presence enhances fire protection efforts, supports livestock and agriculture needs, and fosters biodiversity through fish pond habitats. With proper maintenance and monitoring, this dam will continue to serve as a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts seeking sustainable solutions for water management in Montana.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

W FORK FROZE TO DEATH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

113

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.