Zempel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Richardson B G Olson #2
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Zempel is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Forsyth, Montana, along the Mcgraw Coulee River.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 204 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although the structure has not been inspected recently, it falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the DNRC. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and risk assessment and management measures are currently unspecified.
Located in Rosebud County, Montana, Zempel Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation purposes in the region. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate impact on infrastructure would find Zempel's historical significance and current regulatory status to be of interest.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
672 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
MCGRAW COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
235 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Zempel