Upper Magpie Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Magpie Reservoir, located in Glendive, Montana, is a private water resource primarily used for fire protection, livestock, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the reservoir is state-regulated and regularly inspected for safety and compliance.

Situated along the TR-Magpie Creek, Upper Magpie Reservoir serves as a vital water source in Dawson County, Montana. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not yet been rated for its condition. While it currently meets guidelines for emergency action planning, there is room for improvement in risk assessment and management measures. Despite being a privately owned structure, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Magpie Reservoir offers a glimpse into the intricate network of water infrastructure in rural Montana. From its modest beginnings as a fire protection reservoir to its present-day role in supporting local agriculture and wildlife, this earth dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. As discussions around water scarcity and climate change continue to gain momentum, the Upper Magpie Reservoir stands as a reminder of the essential role that reservoirs play in safeguarding our precious water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-MAGPIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

110

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.