Whisker Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buffalo Wallow Dam Fergus County #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Whisker Dam, located in Fergus County, Montana, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1954 with a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along Whisker Coulee.
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Summary
With a height of 24 feet and a length of 670 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for the local ecosystem. The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, but it faces a moderate risk level due to its age and condition assessment not being rated.
Despite not being under the jurisdiction of a federal agency, Whisker Dam is subject to state regulation and permitting by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The dam has state-mandated inspection and enforcement protocols in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Although no emergency action plan has been reported, the dam's risk management measures are being monitored to address any potential issues that may arise.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Whisker Dam an intriguing case study of a state-managed infrastructure project that plays a crucial role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats in the region. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a valuable resource for water storage and conservation efforts in Montana. Its historical significance and environmental impact make it a noteworthy site for further study and appreciation among those interested in water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Whisker Coulee |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Drainage Area |
1280 |
Nid Storage |
380 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
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.
Whisker Dam