Sheepland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sheepland is a privately owned dam located in Musselshell, Montana, along the North Willow Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1946, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and serves primarily for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, Sheepland has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Even though Sheepland is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, it plays a vital role in providing essential water resources for nearby communities while also supporting local wildlife habitats. The surrounding area, including the city of Mosby, benefits from the dam's water storage capabilities for various purposes.

Despite its modest size, Sheepland stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates continue to monitor and protect such critical infrastructure, Sheepland serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and community well-being.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

NORTH WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

116

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.