Retriever #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Retriever #1, also known as Browns Reservoir, is a privately owned dam located in Huntley, Montana.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and stretches 430 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet for purposes such as fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring compliance with state jurisdiction and permitting requirements.

Situated on the TWELVEMILE CREEK-OFFSTREAM, Retriever #1 plays a vital role in providing water resources for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. Its significant hazard potential highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Although the condition of the dam is not currently rated, the presence of state enforcement, inspection, and regulatory agencies demonstrates a commitment to the proper management and operation of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Owned by a private entity in Yellowstone County, Retriever #1 serves as a key component in the local water supply network, offering crucial support for fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources and availability, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Retriever #1 are essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future. The dedication to state regulations and oversight, coupled with the dam's historical significance and operational purpose, underscores its importance as a valuable resource in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TWELVEMILE CREEK-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

156

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

8
       
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.