David Drum #4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
David Drum #4 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Phillips County, Montana, specifically in the city of Malta along Beaver Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1950 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 249 acre-feet, with a drainage area of 183.75 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is rated low, indicating a stable and secure structure.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), David Drum #4 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and contributes to the agricultural activities in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1650 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 330 feet, the dam ensures efficient water management for the surrounding area.
Although the condition assessment of David Drum #4 is currently not rated, its low hazard potential and state oversight provide assurance of its safety and functionality. As a key component of the water resource infrastructure in Phillips County, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local agricultural community and maintaining the ecological balance of Beaver Creek. With ongoing state monitoring and regulation, David Drum #4 continues to contribute to sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
183.75 |
Nid Storage |
249 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
David Drum #4