Early Bird Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Early Bird is a private water resource located in SACO, Montana, serving multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this Earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-SPRING COULEE river or stream, this dam is state-regulated by the DNRC with a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
Despite being non-federally owned, Early Bird falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Montana and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location in Phillips County, Montana, makes it a crucial asset for water management in the region, with a maximum storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet. Although the dam has not been inspected recently, its low hazard potential suggests that it remains a safe and reliable resource for the local community.
With its strategic placement in the Omaha District and accessibility to Congressional District 00 in Montana, Early Bird plays a vital role in ensuring water security and fire protection for the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Early Bird will be essential for protecting ecosystems and communities against future water challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SPRING COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Early Bird