Williams Coulee #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Williams Coulee #2 is a privately owned dam located in Petroleum County, Montana, serving multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-Musselshell River, this structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Williams Coulee #2 is classified as a low hazard potential dam with a condition assessment that has not been rated. Despite its age, this dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and regulated by the state authority to ensure its safety and functionality. With a focus on fire protection and livestock water supply, this dam contributes to the local ecosystem and supports sustainable water management practices in the region.

As an essential infrastructure for the surrounding community, Williams Coulee #2 represents a blend of historical significance and modern water resource management. Its location near the Musselshell River and its multiple purposes demonstrate the importance of maintaining and regulating dams to support both human needs and environmental sustainability in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-MUSSELLSHELL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.