Sterret Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mayns Dam Springdale #4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sterret, also known as Wertz Reservoir, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in Meagher, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1910 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 23 feet high and stretches 600 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1286 acre-feet, Sterret serves the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural lands, drawing water from the TR-South Fork Smith River.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Sterret is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and not having a current condition rating, the reservoir has not been assessed for risk management measures or emergency preparedness plans. The reservoir's location in Congressional District 00 under the representation of Greg Gianforte (R) underscores its importance in the local water resource infrastructure.
While the specific details of Sterret's maintenance and risk assessment remain unclear, its historical significance and vital role in supporting irrigation activities in the region make it a crucial asset that warrants continued monitoring and evaluation to ensure its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH FORK SMITH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
3.05 |
Nid Storage |
1286 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sterret