Biggerstuf Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Biggerstuf is a private dam located in Powder River, Montana, along the Otter Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this Earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. It serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, livestock, and as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is regularly inspected for safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of Biggerstuf has not been rated, and there is no emergency action plan in place. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is not owned or funded by any federal agency. Its primary purpose is to provide essential services to the surrounding area, such as protecting against wildfires and providing water for livestock. Located in a remote area, Biggerstuf plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and water resource management efforts.

Overall, Biggerstuf represents a crucial infrastructure piece for the community of Ashland and the surrounding areas in Montana. With its diverse water usage capabilities and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a vital resource for fire protection and agriculture, highlighting the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.