Payton #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Payton #2 Shumaker #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Payton #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Fallon, Montana, along the Whitney Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1956, this dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet, Payton #1 has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not-rated condition.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Payton #1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam is primarily used for agricultural and environmental purposes, providing essential water resources for livestock and wildlife in the area. Despite its age, the dam continues to function effectively, meeting the needs of the local community.
Located in a picturesque setting in Prairie County, Montana, Payton #1 is surrounded by scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife. With its strategic location and vital role in water resource management, this dam plays a crucial part in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting the diverse habitats in the region. As a key infrastructure for water supply and conservation, Payton #1 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WHITNEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
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.
Payton #1