Black Wolff #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Black Wolff #3 is a private dam located in Carter County, Montana, along Box Elder Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 229 acre-feet for flood risk reduction. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is in a low hazard potential condition, with no official assessment of its current condition.

Situated in a picturesque location near Marmarth, North Dakota, Black Wolff #3 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the area. With a history dating back to the 1960s, this dam continues to play a significant role in mitigating the risk of flooding for the surrounding communities. Although its hazard potential is considered low, ongoing inspections and enforcement ensure that the dam remains safe and operational for the protection of residents and property along Box Elder Creek.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Black Wolff #3 lies in its contribution to flood risk reduction and its role in water management in the region. With its strategic location and functional design, this dam serves as a key asset in safeguarding against potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for the resilience of communities in Montana and beyond.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

BOX ELDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

229

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.