Ugly Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dogwood White Bear Reservoir
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ugly is a state-owned dam located in the picturesque county of Blaine, Montana, specifically in the city of Dodson along the TR-Box Elder Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1943 for purposes of fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 15 feet, with a length of 180 feet and a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Despite its age, Ugly remains in a low hazard potential category and has not yet been rated for its condition.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ugly is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is reassuring to know that it meets guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures, even though specific details such as the last inspection date and condition assessment are currently not available. With its vital role in fire protection and water storage, Ugly serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BOX ELDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Battle Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
12cfs |
Clear Creek Near Chinook Mt
|
21cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
Milk River At Havre Mt
|
42cfs |
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.
Ugly