R Burton #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

R Burton #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Yellowstone, Montana, specifically in the city of Huntley.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. Situated on TR-Fivemile Creek, this structure has a dam height of 15 feet and a total length of 600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), R Burton #1 is classified as a low hazard potential dam with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. Despite its relatively low risk, the dam meets state regulatory standards and undergoes regular inspections, maintenance, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Additionally, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, indicating a potential area for improvement in emergency preparedness and response.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, R Burton #1 presents an interesting case study in dam management and regulation in Montana. With its multiple functions and location in a rural area, this dam showcases the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to prevent potential hazards and ensure the sustainability of water resources in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like R Burton #1 play a crucial role in managing and conserving water for various uses while also adapting to evolving environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-FIVEMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

77

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.