Blunt Ranch #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lazy Jd #12 Roth #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Blunt Ranch #3, also known as Archie Reservoir, is a private dam located in Phillips, Montana, along the North Fork Fourchette Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1960 by USDA NRCS, this Earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a dam height of 15 feet and a length of 900 feet, the reservoir has a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.22 square miles.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Blunt Ranch #3 is state-regulated and receives state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area while also supporting wildlife habitat. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to serve as a critical infrastructure for the local community and ecosystem.
Located in a remote area with minimal risk of inundation, Blunt Ranch #3 has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated. However, with its relatively low hazard potential and stable condition, the dam remains a reliable source of water for fire protection and livestock, contributing to the overall water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Blunt Ranch #3 play a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems and communities in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK FOURCHETTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
4.22 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
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.
Blunt Ranch #3