Game Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Teds Reservoir Thora #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Game Reservoir in Montana, managed by a private owner, was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1970 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Situated on Shade Creek in McCone County, this earth dam stands at 12 feet high and 450 feet long, with a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet. The reservoir serves as a crucial water resource in the region, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
This reservoir, located in the congressional district of Montana, is regulated and inspected by the DNRC, with state permitting and enforcement in place. The spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 55 feet, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 550 cubic feet per second. Despite being not rated for its condition assessment, Game Reservoir plays a vital role in water management for its local community and surrounding areas, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Water and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and purpose of Game Reservoir, serving as a multi-functional infrastructure for fire protection, livestock, and fisheries. With its historical significance dating back to the 1970s, this reservoir continues to stand as a testament to effective water resource management in Montana. As climate change impacts become more prominent, the resilience of Game Reservoir in providing essential water supply and storage highlights the critical role of such infrastructure in adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SHADE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.53 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Tampico Mt
|
123cfs |
Poplar River Near Poplar Mt
|
28cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Game Reservoir