White Bear Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
White Bear Reservoir, located in Dodson, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this reservoir has a storage capacity of 223 acre-feet and a dam height of 12 feet. Situated on the South Branch White Bear Creek, this reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), White Bear Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition. Despite lacking specific data on its surface area and maximum discharge, the reservoir continues to provide essential services to the local community. With its strategic location and functional design, White Bear Reservoir stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
As a key component in the water infrastructure of Blaine County, White Bear Reservoir serves as a valuable resource for addressing fire emergencies, livestock needs, and ecological conservation efforts. With its history dating back to the mid-20th century, this reservoir remains a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices in Montana.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH WHITE BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
223 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
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.
White Bear Reservoir