Wendall Willkie Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wendall Willkie, also known as Hill Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Montana's Judith Basin County.


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Summary

This reservoir serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a dam height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet, Wendall Willkie plays a significant role in water management in the region.

Constructed in 1965, Wendall Willkie is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The reservoir's location near Meadow Creek and its proximity to Denton make it a vital water resource for both agricultural and environmental purposes. Despite being labeled as "Significant" in terms of hazard potential, the condition assessment of Wendall Willkie remains unrated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Wendall Willkie's importance extends beyond its primary purposes of fire protection and stock watering. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the reservoir's role in supporting the region's ecosystem and agricultural activities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Wendall Willkie stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-MEADOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

46

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.