Second Telegraph Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Second Telegraph is a privately owned dam located in Phillips County, Montana, along Second Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1963, the earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that has not been rated, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet, covering a surface area that is not specified in the available data. Despite lacking detailed information on spillway type, discharge capacity, and associated structures, Second Telegraph contributes to water resource management and climate resilience in the region. The dam is situated within Congressional District 00 of Montana and falls under the oversight of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

While specific data on the dam's inspection frequency, emergency action plan, and risk management measures is not provided, Second Telegraph remains a vital structure for the local community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Second Telegraph in ensuring water security and ecosystem health is crucial for sustainable development and adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance of this dam highlight the importance of proactive management to mitigate potential risks and safeguard water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SECOND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

190

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.