Fr Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fr Dam, located in Nashua, Montana, is a gravity dam that was completed in 2003 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this federal-owned structure stands at a structural height of 34 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29 feet, impounding a maximum storage capacity of 88.21 acre-feet. The dam spans 807 feet in length and covers a surface area of 15.34 acres, serving as a vital resource for the local ecosystem.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Fr Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last recorded inspection was on July 22, 2020, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." While no emergency action plan (EAP) is currently in place, the dam has not experienced any modifications since its completion, highlighting its stable and reliable nature in contributing to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

With its strategic location on Bullwhacker Coulee and contribution to fish and wildlife habitat enhancement, Fr Dam serves as a valuable asset for the community and ecosystem in Blaine County, Montana. As a federal-owned structure designed and constructed by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam embodies a harmonious balance between water resource management, environmental conservation, and recreational opportunities, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions and promoting biodiversity in the area.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

807

River Or Stream

BULLWHACKER COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15.34

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

88.21

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.