Born Free Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hastetter #2 Hastetter #1
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Born Free is a privately-owned earth dam located in Richland County, Montana, specifically in the city of Crane.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, creating a stock pond, and supporting small fish populations. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 450 feet, Born Free has a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet.
Situated on TR-SHADWELL CREEK, Born Free is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite not having a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam meets guidelines and is regularly monitored for any potential risks or hazards.
With its picturesque location and important functions in fire protection and supporting local wildlife, Born Free is a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in the area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the role this dam plays in maintaining the ecosystem and providing valuable resources for the community.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHADWELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Born Free