Mckerlic #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Billings #3 Coal Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mckerlic #1 is a privately owned dam located in Garfield, Montana, along the TR-BIG DRY CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, serving multiple beneficial functions for the local community.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Mckerlic #1 is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and support for the surrounding area. While there are no associated structures or specific risk management measures listed, the dam remains an essential asset for water storage and protection.
Although not operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mckerlic #1 serves as a vital infrastructure for the region, contributing to water supply, fire protection, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and continued functionality, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resources management and climate resilience in Montana.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
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.
Mckerlic #1