Smith Creek Grazing Dist (B.N.) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Savage, Montana, the Smith Creek Grazing District (B.N.) is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1966 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), this dam has a height of 18 feet and a length of 325 feet, with a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-C.S. Creek, this low hazard potential dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local area from potential flooding and providing water resources for agricultural and ecological needs.

With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, the Smith Creek Grazing District dam ensures compliance with safety standards and operational efficiency. Despite being in a not rated condition assessment, this dam serves as a reliable water management infrastructure for the surrounding Wibaux County community. The dam's location in Congressional District 00, Montana, under the oversight of Representative Greg Gianforte, highlights its significance in sustaining water resources and climate resilience in the region.

As a key component of the water resource infrastructure in Montana, the Smith Creek Grazing District (B.N.) dam continues to play a vital role in maintaining water supply for various purposes while mitigating potential risks. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find the Smith Creek Grazing District a fascinating example of effective dam engineering and management in the state's landscape.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-C.S. CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.