Tillman #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Tillman #3 is a private dam located in Poplar, Montana, along the TR-Redwater Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet. The primary purposes of Tillman #3 are fire protection, stock water supply, and small fish pond management, serving the local community and wildlife alike.

Operated and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Tillman #3 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Despite not being federally owned or funded, the dam undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With its location in a critical region for water resource management and climate resilience, Tillman #3 plays a significant role in supporting the local ecosystem and agricultural activities through its water storage capabilities.

As a key infrastructure in the area, Tillman #3 contributes to the overall water management efforts in McCone County, Montana. With its strategic design and purposeful construction, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring the resilience of communities dependent on water for various purposes. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Tillman #3 is vital in promoting effective water stewardship and conservation practices for a more sustainable future.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-REDWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

192

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.