Headman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fergus County #1 Whisker Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Headman Dam, located in Petroleum County, Montana, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 82.01 acre-feet. The dam, constructed with buttress and stone core types, spans a length of 464 feet and covers a surface area of 13.27 acres along an intermittent river or stream.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Headman Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2019. The dam does not currently serve a primary purpose and is not regulated or permitted by the state. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the maintenance and inspection of Headman Dam to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community and environment. With no emergency action plan in place, stakeholders should advocate for the implementation of risk management measures and regular assessments to mitigate any potential hazards associated with the dam.
As a significant infrastructure managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Headman Dam stands as a testament to federal efforts to maintain water resources in the region. Its location in a remote area underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and management to safeguard against any unforeseen risks or emergencies. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can play a crucial role in advocating for responsible stewardship of Headman Dam and other similar structures to ensure their long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
464 |
River Or Stream |
INTERMITTENT |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
13.27 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
82.01 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Malta Mt
|
0cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Homestead - Edwin Wartzenluft
|
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Homestead - Robert Woods
|
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Alex Camp
|
Headman Dam