Smile #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Berrys Land #3 Berrys Land
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Smile #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Poplar, Montana, on Hay Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1962 for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, this dam serves multiple purposes while also being regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 300 feet, Smile #1 has a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet and a low hazard potential.
Despite not being rated for its current condition, Smile #1 remains an important structure in the region, providing essential water resources for various purposes. With its location in Dawson County, Montana, and under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, this dam stands as a testament to water management efforts in the area. As a vital infrastructure for the community, Smile #1 showcases the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Smile #1 for its role in providing water for fire protection, stock, and recreational purposes. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, this dam represents a key component of water infrastructure in the region. As Montana continues to face challenges related to water availability and quality, structures like Smile #1 highlight the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
HAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
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.
Smile #1