Third Stooges Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Meagher, Montana, the Third Stooges dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-North Fork Musselshell River, this privately-owned structure is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safe operation.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Third Stooges dam is a vital resource for the residents of Twodot, Montana. Despite its age, this dam continues to provide essential water storage and emergency services for the surrounding community. Although its inspection frequency and emergency action plan status are not specified, the dam's owners are committed to meeting regulatory guidelines and ensuring the safety of those downstream.

Managed by private owners and located in a picturesque setting, the Third Stooges dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in rural Montana. With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting local agriculture and fire protection efforts, this dam serves as a reminder of the crucial role that small-scale water infrastructure plays in sustaining rural communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK MUSSELSHELL RIV

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

64

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.