Polar Bear Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Polar Bear Reservoir, located in Dodson, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at 20 feet high with a length of 75 feet, providing a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. The reservoir is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated on TR-Fifteenmile Creek, Polar Bear Reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management in Blaine County, Montana. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the reservoir remains an important asset for the local community. Its location in a remote area adds to its significance in providing essential water resources for wildlife, agriculture, and emergency services in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the maintenance and proper management of reservoirs like Polar Bear are becoming increasingly vital. With its key role in supporting various needs in the area, this reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-FIFTEENMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

210

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.