Bummer Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson Farms Inc #1 J Jacobsen #2
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Bummer is a privately owned earth dam located in Sheridan, Montana, near the city of Homestead.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet. It is situated on the TR-Smoke Creek, within the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bummer is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Montana. The dam's spillway width is 48 feet, and it has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and there is limited information available on risk assessment and management measures. Overall, Bummer provides vital water resource management for the local area while also serving as a potential habitat for small fish species.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed information available on Bummer, from its construction history to its current regulatory status. The dam's location on the TR-Smoke Creek and its purpose for fire protection highlight its importance in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential disasters. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Bummer stands as a key infrastructure for water management in Montana, showcasing the intersection of human intervention and natural resources in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SMOKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.09 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bummer