Wyotana Ranch #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wyotana Ranch #4 is a privately owned earth dam located in Carter, Montana, near Camp Crook, South Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 400 feet, it has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 24 acre-feet.

Situated on Thompson Creek, this low-hazard dam is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). Despite not having a current condition rating, it is considered to have a low hazard potential. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, but it meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although the structure has not been modified in recent years, it continues to provide essential services to the local community while posing minimal risk to downstream areas.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wyotana Ranch #4 represents a key infrastructure supporting agriculture and ecological needs in the region. This dam exemplifies the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in rural areas. With its multiple uses and relatively low risk profile, it serves as a valuable asset for both the owner and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-THOMPSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

80

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.