Three Dollar Bill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Three Dollar Bill is a privately owned earth dam located in Toole, Montana, specifically in the city of DEVON.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 24 feet and a length of 180 feet, Three Dollar Bill has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 20 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-DUNKIRK COULEE river and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition of Three Dollar Bill has not been rated. It is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency, indicating a commitment to maintaining its safety and functionality. With its location in a scenic and important ecosystem in Montana, Three Dollar Bill is a significant water resource for the region, providing essential services for fire protection and livestock, while also contributing to the local environment as a small fish pond.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Three Dollar Bill offers a fascinating example of a privately owned dam that plays a crucial role in local water management and conservation efforts. Its history, design, and purpose make it a noteworthy structure within the state of Montana, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure with natural resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, understanding and supporting the maintenance of dams like Three Dollar Bill becomes increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water management in the future.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-DUNKIRK COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.