Rock Springs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rock Springs, located in Kinsey, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1949 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated on Dirty Woman Creek in Rosebud County, this dam has a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The dam spans 400 feet in length and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Rock Springs serves as a critical water resource infrastructure in the region. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unknown. With no associated structures or federal agency involvement, Rock Springs stands as a testament to private stewardship of water resources in Montana's congressional district 00, under the representation of Greg Gianforte (R).

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Rock Springs for its historical significance and role in providing essential services to the local community. The dam's location on Dirty Woman Creek highlights its importance for fire protection and agricultural activities, showcasing the intersection of water management and environmental conservation in a rural setting. As a privately owned structure, Rock Springs exemplifies the diverse landscape of water infrastructure in Montana and the need for proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure its long-term functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

DIRTY WOMAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

83

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.