Arbuckle #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Arbuckle #1 is a privately owned earth dam in Carter, Montana, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1940 for irrigation purposes along the Hay Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a length of 200 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4000 cubic feet per second. Located in a low hazard area, the condition assessment of Arbuckle #1 is currently not rated, but it is regulated and inspected by the Montana DNRC.

Despite its age, Arbuckle #1 continues to serve its intended purpose of irrigation, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the surrounding area. The dam's solid construction and low hazard potential make it a reliable infrastructure for water management along the Hay Creek. With its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and state regulatory agency, Arbuckle #1 is a vital component of the water resource system in this region.

As a key feature in the water management infrastructure of Carter, Montana, Arbuckle #1 plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply for agricultural activities in the area. With its regulated status and consistent inspection, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices. Its design by the USDA NRCS and favorable location make Arbuckle #1 a valuable asset for climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals interested in sustainable water infrastructure development.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

HAYCREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

24.5

Nid Storage

104

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.