Spica Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque state of Montana, Spica is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1952 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and serving as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Situated in Chouteau County near the city of Virgelle, Spica stands at a height of 12 feet with a length of 300 feet, offering a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is deemed to have a low hazard potential.

Nestled along the TR-Flat Creek, Spica plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a key asset for providing essential services such as fire protection and livestock water supply. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's critical functions highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued efficacy in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Spica lies not only in its functional aspects but also in its contribution to the local ecosystem and water sustainability. By understanding the role of such structures in balancing ecological needs with human requirements, we can appreciate the intricate interplay between water resources, infrastructure, and climate adaptation in shaping resilient communities for the future.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-FLAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

143

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.