Barney Rubbel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crandall Reservoir Wilma
Last Updated: December 31, 2025
Barney Rubbel, located in Poplar, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1960 to serve multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Situated on Badger Creek in Roosevelt County, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Barney Rubbel is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Barney Rubbel serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose of fire protection highlights its importance in safeguarding the local community from potential wildfires. Despite being privately owned, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining ecological balance in the region.
Located in Congressional District 00, Montana, Barney Rubbel contributes to the overall water management efforts in the state. As a key infrastructure for water storage and supply, this earth dam not only benefits local residents but also reflects the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With its long-standing history and essential functions, Barney Rubbel is a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental sustainability in Montana.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
BADGER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Barney Rubbel