Stephen #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones (Yellowstone) Brown Buffalo #1
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Stephen #1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Musselshell, Montana, along the Dry Fork Hawk Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 225 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, Stephen #1 serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Stephen #1 has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam is equipped with a spillway width of 25 feet and is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting. Located within Congressional District 00 in Montana, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and water management in the region.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Stephen #1 serves as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and regulatory agencies in ensuring the efficient and safe utilization of water resources. With its strategic location and reliable design, this irrigation dam continues to play a vital role in sustaining the agricultural landscape of Musselshell, Montana.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
DRY FORK HAWK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
7.81 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Stephen #1