Beardsley #6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Beardsley #6 is a privately owned earth dam located in Terry, Montana, specifically on TR-Coal Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet, Beardsley #6 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Beardsley #6 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Its location in Custer County, Montana, and its association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight its importance in water resource management in the region. Although the dam has not been assessed for emergency action planning or risk management measures, its operational history and purpose as a critical water source for the surrounding area make it a key asset for fire protection and agricultural needs.

As a vital water resource in the region, Beardsley #6 plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and livestock, as well as supporting local ecosystems through its function as a small fish pond. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, this earth dam represents a valuable asset in the management of water resources in Custer County, Montana. Its history of service since 1962 underscores its importance in sustaining the local community and environment in times of need.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-COAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

98

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.