Atlas Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Atlas is a private dam located in Judith Basin, Montana, specifically in the city of Ross Fork.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 450 feet in length. Its primary purposes include fire protection, stock, and serving as a small fish pond, with a maximum storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is classified as having a low hazard potential.

Situated on the TR-Judith River, Atlas serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, offering water for various uses while maintaining a low risk profile. The dam is equipped with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to ensure its safety and functionality. With its strategic location in Congressional District 00, Montana, Atlas plays a vital role in managing water resources for fire protection, agricultural needs, and wildlife habitat maintenance.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Atlas as a key infrastructure supporting sustainable water management in Judith Basin, Montana. Its historical construction and ongoing regulatory oversight by the DNRC underscore its importance in safeguarding water availability for the local community and ecosystem. As a private dam with multiple designated purposes, Atlas represents a model of responsible water resource management in the region, contributing to both environmental conservation and public safety efforts.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-JUDITH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

144

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.