Ostrich Egg Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gritty Milk Mercury (Hill)
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Ostrich Egg is a privately owned Earth dam located in GILDFORD, Montana, along the TR-LITTLE SAGE CREEK river.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, Ostrich Egg is classified as having a low hazard potential and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
Despite its age, Ostrich Egg has not undergone a recent condition assessment and is currently rated as "Not Rated". The dam has not been inspected for hazards or emergency preparedness measures, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. While the risk assessment and management measures for the dam remain unclear, it is important for stakeholders and the local community to be aware of the potential risks associated with this structure, especially in the event of an emergency or extreme weather event.
Given its critical role in providing water resources for firefighting and agricultural purposes, it is crucial for the owners and regulators of Ostrich Egg to prioritize regular inspections, hazard assessments, and the development of an updated Emergency Action Plan to ensure the safety and efficiency of this dam in the face of changing climate conditions. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local authorities will be essential in managing the risks associated with this important water resource infrastructure in Hill County, Montana.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SAGE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
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.
Ostrich Egg