Tillman #1 (Dawson) Reservoir Report

Nearby: Brain Buck

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Tillman #1 (Dawson) is a privately owned earth dam located in Dawson, Montana, along the TR-NORTH FORK DEER CREEK.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, the dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet. The primary purposes of the dam are for fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, serving the local community in Intake.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Tillman #1 (Dawson) has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While the dam has not been inspected recently, it is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tillman #1 (Dawson) presents an interesting case study of a historic earth dam serving multiple purposes in a rural Montana community. The dam's presence along TR-NORTH FORK DEER CREEK contributes to the local ecosystem and provides essential water resources for fire protection and livestock. With its low hazard potential and state regulation, Tillman #1 (Dawson) exemplifies the importance of proper management and maintenance of water infrastructure in ensuring community safety and resource sustainability.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

55

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.