Thompson Creek Dam(Proposed) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Thompson Creek Dam(Proposed) is a private dam project located in Carter, Montana, along the Thompson Creek.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 15 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet, is primarily designed for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond. Although the dam is currently classified as having a low hazard potential and is not rated in terms of condition assessment, it is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The proposed Thompson Creek Dam serves a vital role in providing water resources for fire protection and supporting local agriculture and wildlife in the area. With a capacity of 180 acre-feet and a normal storage of 82 acre-feet, the dam contributes to the conservation and management of water in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight to uphold safety standards and ensure its continued operation for the intended purposes.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find the Thompson Creek Dam(Proposed) project in Montana to be an intriguing example of private dam infrastructure designed to address specific water management needs in the region. With a focus on fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes, the dam represents a proactive approach to water resource utilization and conservation. As the project progresses, ongoing state inspection, permitting, and enforcement efforts will be crucial in maintaining the dam's integrity and functionality for the benefit of the local community and ecosystem.

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

THOMPSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.