Rocky #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rocky #1 is a privately owned dam located in Phillips County, Montana, specifically in the city of Wagner.


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Summary

Built in 1931, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 200 feet, with a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. The primary purposes of the dam are for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, serving the local community and enhancing water resource management in the region.

Situated along Deer Creek, Rocky #1 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated. With a maximum discharge capacity of 125 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 25 feet, the dam contributes to the overall water management system in the area. As an important component of the local infrastructure, Rocky #1 plays a crucial role in maintaining water availability for various uses, including firefighting, livestock, and recreational purposes.

Overall, Rocky #1 serves as a vital structure for water resource management in Phillips County, Montana, providing essential functions for the community. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the dam continues to play a key role in ensuring water availability for fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper maintenance and regulatory oversight of dams like Rocky #1 are crucial for sustainable water management and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.73

Nid Storage

119

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.