Wicker Basket #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wicker Basket #2 Van Haur
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wicker Basket #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Fergus County, Montana, with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or serving as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this dam has a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. Situated in a rural area near the city of Suffolk, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
This low hazard potential dam on diffused surface water serves as an essential resource for local fire protection and livestock needs. Despite being not rated for its condition assessment, Wicker Basket #1 continues to fulfill its primary purpose effectively. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in supporting various community needs. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find Wicker Basket #1 to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure serving multiple functions in a rural setting.
With its location in the Omaha District and under the jurisdiction of the state of Montana, Wicker Basket #1 represents a valuable asset in water management and conservation efforts. As a privately owned structure with a clear purpose and regulated by state authorities, this dam showcases the collaborative approach needed to ensure the sustainable use of water resources. Its history, design, and operational status make Wicker Basket #1 a significant point of interest for enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and community needs in rural settings like Fergus County, Montana.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4820cfs |
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.
Wicker Basket #1