Big Deal Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Big Deal, a state-owned dam in Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond creation.
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Summary
Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and has a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Located in Valley County near Glasgow, the dam on TR-Spring Creek is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is also under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Big Deal plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. While the dam has not been recently inspected or evaluated for risk assessment, it remains an important asset for the local community. Additionally, the dam does not fall under the authority of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlighting the primary role of state agencies in overseeing its operation and maintenance.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Deal offers a fascinating case study of a multi-purpose dam in a rural setting. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intersection of water management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship in Montana. As concerns over water scarcity and climate change continue to grow, understanding the role of dams like Big Deal becomes increasingly important for sustainable resource management and adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
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.
Big Deal