Tom #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Garfield County, Montana, Tom #1 is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1950 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), this low-hazard dam on TR-Big Dry Creek serves as a vital water resource in the area. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, Tom #1 plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing water for various purposes.

Despite its age, Tom #1 remains in good condition and has not been rated for maintenance needs. With a history of serving the community for over seven decades, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change. As climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Tom #1 in mitigating the impacts of droughts and wildfires is essential for preserving water resources and ensuring a resilient future for both humans and wildlife.

With its strategic location in Congressional District 00 of Montana and close oversight by the DNRC, Tom #1 is a testament to effective state regulation and enforcement of dam safety standards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we must continue to advocate for sustainable water management practices and support initiatives that prioritize the preservation and maintenance of critical infrastructure like Tom #1. By working together to address the challenges posed by climate change, we can ensure a secure and reliable water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-BIG DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

87

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.