Richardson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Zempel B G Olson #2
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Situated in Rosebud, Montana, the Richardson dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this private earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Located along the TR-SUN COULEE river, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Richardson dam presents a reliable water resource for the surrounding community of Forsyth. Although the dam has not been recently inspected or assessed for risk management measures, its primary purpose of providing essential services such as fire protection highlights its importance for local water resource and climate enthusiasts. As part of Congressional District 00 in Montana, the Richardson dam is overseen by Representative Greg Gianforte (R) and the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
In conclusion, the Richardson dam stands as a critical infrastructure for water management in the region, offering support for agricultural activities, fire prevention, and wildlife conservation. As an earth dam with a long history of service, it represents a key component of the local water resource network and underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures for the benefit of the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SUN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Richardson