Willow Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hansen (Blaine) Brinkman
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Blaine, Montana, Willow is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1957 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet, Willow serves as a vital resource for the local community in Harlem, Montana, ensuring water availability for various needs. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its low hazard potential, Willow plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. Situated on TR-Box Elder Creek, the dam contributes to the overall water supply and helps mitigate the risk of wildfires by providing a reliable source for fire protection. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Willow exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate action can appreciate the significance of Willow in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental conservation in Montana.
As a key infrastructure in the Omaha District, Willow showcases the collaborative efforts between private ownership and state agencies to ensure the safe operation of the dam. With its modest size and functional design, the dam stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of water resource engineers in adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate. Willow serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and community well-being, underscoring the importance of sustainable water management practices for future generations to come.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BOX ELDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Battle Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
12cfs |
Clear Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
21cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
Milk River At Havre Mt
|
42cfs |
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.
Willow