Big John M Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big John M is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Fergus County, Montana.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth type dam stands at 52 feet tall and spans 210 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1003 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.78 square miles. The dam's primary purpose is to provide irrigation water, and it is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

Situated on the TR-East Fork Armells Creek, Big John M serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding agricultural community in Christina, Montana. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated", the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the region's water needs while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. While the dam has not been inspected recently, it is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to maintain its integrity and functionality.

Despite its remote location, Big John M is a key infrastructure piece in the local water management system, contributing to the sustainability of irrigation practices in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, the dam serves as a symbol of effective water resource management in the region, showcasing the collaborative efforts between private owners, government agencies, and design experts to support the needs of the community and protect the environment.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

TR-EAST FORK ARMELLS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

52

Drainage Area

0.78

Nid Storage

1003

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.