D Drum Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

D Drum, located in Phillips County, Montana, is a private earth dam completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

It stands at 12 feet high and 175 feet long, with a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. Situated on Threemile Coulee, this dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," D Drum serves as a vital resource for water management in the area. It plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and supporting agricultural activities by storing water for livestock and small fish ponds. Despite its age, the dam continues to function effectively, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and regulation in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like D Drum in managing and conserving water is essential. By recognizing the role of these dams in supporting various purposes and industries, we can appreciate the efforts put forth by regulatory agencies and owners to maintain the integrity and functionality of such crucial infrastructure. The data provided sheds light on the importance of responsible water management practices and the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure the resilience of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

THREEMILE COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

99

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.