Isaac Frye #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alley Oop Veseth Reservoir
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Isaac Frye #3 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Phillips County, Montana, specifically in the city of Malta.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1954 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and a small fish pond. It stands at a height of 15 feet with a length of 150 feet, providing a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.
Situated on TR-Beaver Creek, Isaac Frye #3 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) with state jurisdiction and permit requirements. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its emergency action plan (EAP) is not currently in place. With a spillway width of 100 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and contributes to the overall ecosystem health in the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Isaac Frye #3 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a key feature in the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental conservation. With its historical significance and ongoing role in fire protection and wildlife habitat support, Isaac Frye #3 serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and community well-being.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
10.98 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Isaac Frye #3