Cherry Creek #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Cherry Creek #5 is a private dam located in Rosebud, Montana, specifically in the city of Forsyth.


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Summary

Completed in 1947, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, this dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Cherry Creek #5 is regulated by the state and subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures. Despite not having been assessed for condition recently, the dam's hydraulic height of 14 feet and length of 150 feet indicate its importance in controlling water flow along the TR-Hallanger Coulee stream. Additionally, the dam's location in a region prone to climate variability underscores the significance of its role in maintaining water security for nearby communities and ecosystems.

As climate change continues to impact water resources across the globe, the presence of dams like Cherry Creek #5 becomes increasingly vital in ensuring water availability for various uses. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in managing water resources for multiple purposes, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, climate adaptation, and sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-HALLANGER COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.