Cockran Grazing #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Carter County, Montana, Cockran Grazing #5 is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 for purposes such as fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Situated along the TR-North Fork Willow Creek, this structure has a height of 25 feet and a length of 150 feet, with a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Managed under the jurisdiction of the state of Montana, Cockran Grazing #5 serves as a vital resource for water conservation and wildlife habitat in the region. The dam's primary purpose of fire protection and livestock management underscores its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting agricultural activities. With Congressman Greg Gianforte representing the area in Congressional District 00, Montana, there is a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and resource management to preserve the integrity of water resources in the county.

As an integral part of the Omaha District's water infrastructure, Cockran Grazing #5 not only contributes to water supply and management but also plays a role in mitigating potential environmental risks and ensuring public safety. While the structure's condition is currently not rated, ongoing assessments and emergency preparedness measures are in place to address any unforeseen challenges. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and sustainability in the local landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

21

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.