Big Gravel Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tow, Wilfred Big Jugs
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Gravel Dam 1, located in Laredo, Montana, was completed in 1952 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
This earth dam has a height of 20 feet and a length of 100 feet, with a storage capacity of 206 acre-feet. Situated on the Gravel Coulee river, the dam's primary source agency is the USDA NRCS, making it a federal-owned structure.
With a low hazard potential, Big Gravel Dam 1 plays a crucial role in providing water resources for agricultural and wildlife conservation in the Hill County of Montana. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, but it continues to serve its intended purposes efficiently. While it lacks certain regulatory and inspection measures, the dam remains a vital infrastructure for the local community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Gravel Dam 1 offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and engineering of water management structures in rural Montana. Its strategic location on the Gravel Coulee river, combined with its multi-purpose design, highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining ecological balance and supporting agricultural activities in the region. As one of the key federal-owned dams in the area, Big Gravel Dam 1 underscores the critical role of such structures in enhancing water security and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Gravel Coulee |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
206 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
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