White Elk (Wheatland) Reservoir Report
Nearby: White Elk Dam #2 Mcfarland-White
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
White Elk (Wheatland) is a privately owned irrigation dam located in the picturesque county of Wheatland, Montana.
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Summary
Completed in 1927, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14.1 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Bear Creek in the city of Twodot, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting the local agricultural community in the region.
Despite being regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), White Elk (Wheatland) has been assessed as having a significant hazard potential, with a high risk rating. The dam features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and has a structural height of 14.1 feet with a hydraulic height of 13.6 feet. While the dam has not been inspected since 2006, it remains in a condition that is currently not rated, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for water resource management in the area.
With its historical significance and vital role in supporting local agriculture, White Elk (Wheatland) stands as a testament to the importance of water resource infrastructure in sustaining communities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, addressing the safety and maintenance of structures like this dam is crucial for adapting to the evolving environmental challenges facing the region.
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
14.1 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.6 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Structural Height |
14.1 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
White Elk (Wheatland)