Big Goose Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big (Phillips) Nelson (Phillips)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Goose Retention Dam, located in Saco, Montana, serves as a critical water resource for the area.
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Summary
Built in 1975 by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam primarily caters to fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a gravity dam type and a height of 22 feet, the structure boasts a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23.12 acres. The dam's location on Beaver Creek/Milk River contributes to its importance in maintaining water supply and supporting local wildlife.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the Big Goose Retention Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in August 2019. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. While it does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan in place, the structure meets safety guidelines and continues to provide essential services to the community. As water resources become increasingly crucial in the face of climate change, the Big Goose Retention Dam remains a key component in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability in Phillips County, Montana.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
1063 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
23.12 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
3.9 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Big Goose Retention Dam