Wesley #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Located in Prairie, Montana, Wesley #2 is an earth dam built in 1890 for irrigation purposes along the TR-SPRING CREEK.


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Summary

Designed by USDA NRCS, this privately owned structure has a height of 25 feet and a length of 350 feet, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the DNRC and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of 'Not Rated', Wesley #2 serves as a vital water resource for agricultural activities in the area. The dam has a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, providing efficient water management for the surrounding drainage area of 2.03 square miles. Despite its age, Wesley #2 continues to play a crucial role in sustaining irrigation needs and supporting the local ecosystem.

As an early example of water infrastructure in Montana, Wesley #2 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water resource management in the region. With a history dating back over a century, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water practices and highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain and improve critical infrastructure for future generations. As a key component of the local water supply system, Wesley #2 represents a blend of historical significance and practical utility in the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

2.03

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.